Evaluation of Green Zone Admissions to the Emergency Department Following the February 6 Earthquake at a University Hospital

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to evaluate the demographic characteristics, presenting complaints, and diagnoses of patients admitted to the green zone of an emergency department following the Kahramanmaraş-centered earthquakes on February 6, 2023, to identify healthcare needs in the post-disaster period.
METHODS: In this retrospective descriptive study, a total of 12,890 patients admitted between February 13 and April 30, 2023, were analyzed based on ICD-10 codes. Age, gender, presenting complaints, and diagnoses were evaluated.
RESULTS: 12,890 unique green zone visits were included (46.5% female, 53.5% male). Admissions peaked in March, accounting for 44.3% of visits, with males consistently higher across all months. The 19–65 age group represented the majority (87.6%), followed by pediatric/adolescent (0–18 years) and elderly (65+ years) patients. A total of 948 ICD-10 diagnosis codes were recorded. The most frequent was Z00.8 – General Examination (29.1%), though it mainly reflected routine assessments. Other leading diagnoses included upper respiratory tract infections, musculoskeletal complaints, dermatological conditions, and eye diseases.


DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Effective management of patient load in emergency departments following disasters is crucial for ensuring the efficient use of limited healthcare personnel and resources. To this end, measures such as strengthening triage procedures, directing green zone patients to appropriate units, planning for additional staff and supplies, and informing the public should be incorporated into disaster preparedness plans.

Keywords: Earthquakes, disaster management, emergency service, ambulatory care, public health.