JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

In Saudi Arabia unintentional injuries among children represent a prevalent and significant public health issue and severe injuries are of the leading indications for hospitalization and impairments.

Objective:

The objectives were to determine the distribution and types of unintentional injuries and their burden on the patient, family, health sectors, and the whole community and identify the outcomes of such injuries (morbidity and mortality).

Methods:

This study was conducted in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Maternity and Children's Hospital, Abha, Aseer region, Saudi Arabia. The study period was from January 2023 to January 2024. Children's age groups were from 0 to 12 years old. The children in the study were admitted with a diagnosis of unintentional injuries, like RTA, falls, and other home accidents.

Results:

The study included 104 children. The gender distribution was 35 females (33.7 %) and 69 males (66.3 %). The patients were recruited from 18 cities in the Aseer region. About half of the patients (49%) were 6–12. Road Traffic Accidents (RTA) represent the highest percentage of accidents, with 66 children (63.5%), followed by falls from height with 38 patients (36.5%), The most significant types of injuries were head and brain injuries (34.2%), followed by chest and lung injuries (26.1%). Most patients (62, 59.6%) remained admitted to the PICU for one to three days. Followed by three to seven days (27), then eight to 14 days (14). Head/brain axonal injury is also the most common injury associated with complications, followed by polytrauma.

Conclusions:

Road traffic accidents are a significant cause of death and disability in Saudi Arabia for all age groups. A strong association existed between the PICU admission duration and the outcome (P=0.023). Health and community institutes and governments should increase community education about the risks and consequences of RTA, strengthen traffic rules and laws, and punish violators.