A One-Year Profile of Acute Poisoning Cases in a Tertiary Care Emergency Department

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to compare the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of intentional and unintentional poisoning cases presenting to the emergency department, to identify predictors of intentional poisoning, and to evaluate the association between poisoning intent and hospital admission. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study included 665 acute poisoning cases evaluated over a one-year period. Demographic data, type of toxic agent, time of presentation, and clinical outcomes were recorded. Intentional and unintentional cases were compared, and predictors of intentional poisoning were analyzed using logistic regression. Results: Of the cases, 87.1% were intentional and 12.9% were unintentional poisonings. Intentional cases were younger, and pharmaceutical drugs were the most common agents, followed by alcohol. Most unintentional cases were associated with carbon monoxide exposure, predominantly during winter. Intentional poisonings occurred more frequently at night and on weekends. Hospital admission rate was higher in intentional cases (46.5% vs. 14%; p<0.001). Logistic regression indicated that alcohol use increased the likelihood of intentional poisoning, whereas carbon monoxide exposure was associated with unintentional cases. Conclusion: Intentional poisoning is associated with younger age, drug and alcohol use, characteristic temporal patterns, and greater need for hospitalization. Incorporating intent-based risk assessment, psychiatric evaluation, and seasonal public health interventions is essential for improving clinical management and prevention strategies.

Keywords

• Poisoning
• Suicide Attempted
• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
• Alcohol Drinking
• Emergency Service

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