Evaluating the Prevalence of Intentional and Unintentional Poisoning in Vulnerable Patients Admitted to a Referral Hospital

Acute poisoning is one of the most threatening health problems around the world. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of intentional and unintentional poisoning in vulnerable groups in order to assist in planning and implementation of preventive measures. This cross-sectional study included 786 patients in vulnerable groups (children، women of reproductive ages and the elderly) with acute poisoning who attended the Emergency Department of Noor Hospital in Isfahan، Iran، during 2012. In 89. 5% of cases، poisoning was intentional and 20. 1% of these patients had a history of previous suicide attempts. Women at the age 19-44 were the most suicidal cases (95. 1%). The most common medications were psychiatric drugs (51. 9%). No significant difference was found between sexes، ingested drugs، and outcome between intentional and poisoning group compared to unintentional poisoning. Majority of patients recovered and the mortality rate was 0. 5%. Our results showed that the women of reproductive ages were the most vulnerable groups at risk of intentional poisoning in our society that commit suicide by using drugs especially with psychiatric drugs. More attention and support for this vulnerable group is suggested.