A Retrospective Review of Trauma Deaths in the Accident and Emergency Department of a Nigerian Tertiary Hospital: A One-Year Analysis
Journal of Practical Emergency Medicine,
Vol. 12 No. 1 (2025),
1 January 2025
,
Page e7
https://doi.org/10.22037/jpem.v12i1.48701
Abstract
Background: Trauma is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, with a disproportionate burden on low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria. Understanding the specific patterns of trauma deaths is crucial for developing targeted interventions. This study aimed to review the socio-demographic and clinico-epidemiological characteristics of trauma deaths in the Accident and Emergency (A&E) department of a tertiary hospital in South-Eastern Nigeria.
Methods: A retrospective review of all trauma patients presenting to the A&E department of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki (AEFUTHA) between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2022, was conducted. Data were extracted from the departmental trauma registry and patient case files. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data, focusing on the 118 patients who died in the A&E.
Results: A total of 3,325 trauma patients were managed, with an in-hospital mortality rate of 3.5% (n=118). Males constituted 84.0% (n=99) of the deceased, and the 16-39 age group was the most affected at 54.7% (n=65). Road Traffic Accidents (RTAs) were the predominant cause of fatal injuries at 82.4% (n=97). Head and neck injuries were the most common cause of death, accounting for 67.7% (n=80) of fatalities. A significant deficiency in formal pre-hospital care was observed; only 2.9% (n=3) of patients arrived by ambulance. Major challenges encountered during management included patient financial constraints (19.5%) and the non-availability of hospital resources (17.8%). Most deaths, 78.5% (n=93), occurred within 24 hours of arrival.
Conclusion: Trauma-related mortality at this Nigerian tertiary center is primarily driven by RTAs affecting young males, with head injuries being the leading cause of death. The findings highlight critical systemic failures, including a near-total absence of formal emergency medical services and significant in-hospital resource limitations. There is an urgent need for policy interventions focused on road safety, establishment of a structured pre-hospital care system, and strengthening of hospital emergency services to reduce preventable trauma deaths.
- Trauma
- Mortality
- Road traffic accidents
- Pre-hospital care
- Emergency department
- Nigeria
How to Cite
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