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Prevalence of physical injuries among Pediatric patients who consulted at the emergency room of a Secondary Government Hospital in Paranaque

Lorela C Dy

 A prospective, observational and descriptive study with an objective to determine the prevalence of physical injuries among pediatric patients who consulted at the emergency room of a secondary government hospital in Paranaque from October 2015–March 2016. Participants were ages 0-18 years old, who consulted the emergency room because of physical injury acquired from accidents. Data was gathered from the patients and/or patient’s companion which were recorded in their charts, Data gathered and compared were: 1. Age, 2. Sex, 3. Time of injury, 4. Place of injury, 5. Cause of injury, 6. Physical findings, 7. Disposition. Univariate analysis-frequency distribution was used for statistical analysis. Results showed that injuries are majority in aged 5-9 and 10-14 years old. There is a male predominance. Most common causes were fall, sharp objects, violence, vehicular accident, heat related, animal bite, foreign body ingestion, poisoning and near-drowning. Injuries reported were abrasion, laceration, hematoma, contusion and punctured wound. Majority were discharged home. In conclusion, the top three cause of injuries were fall, sharp objects and violence both in second place and vehicular accident in third. Injuries are better prevented than treated. Being aware of the causes involved, we could be able to prevent its occurrence and their consequences. Proper supervision for younger children and discipline for older children are key to prevention.