Forensic Cases in Pediatric Emergency Department: A Single Center Experience

Abstract

Introduction: Forensic cases occurring in childhood are among the most preventable health problems worldwide. It is important to identify forensic cases in the region we live in, in order to take appropriate prevention. The aim of this study was to evaluate the demographic and epidemiologic non-traumatic major forensic cases admitted to the pediatric emergency department retrospectively and to determine the accurate and rapid management. Methods: Data of 1.270 children under the age of 18 years, who were admitted to Kayseri City Hospital, Pediatric Emergency Clinic from January 2019 to December 2019, were analyzed retrospectively. Results: Of the children who were admitted to pediatric emergency department as forensic cases, 50.9% were girls and 49.1% were boys. Their mean age was 7.45±6.15 years. The most common diagnosis was intoxication. This was followed by narcotic cases, foreign body aspiration cases, psychiatric cases, cardiopulmonary arrest cases, and other cases. Considering the seasonal distribution of these cases, the most frequent application was in the spring and the least application was in the autumn. Considering the age distribution of these cases, it is seen that the highest rate was between the ages of 11 and 18 years and the lowest rate was between the ages of 6 and 10 years. Conclusion: Accidents and intoxication cases are the leading causes of preventable death in our country and also all over the world. In order to reduce such incidents, necessary arrangements should be made for the safety of children and their homes, and appropriate safety tools should be used when necessary to ensure safety. Regular trainings should be provided to children and parents within the framework of injury prevention programs by educators and healthcare professionals. Abstract