An Examination of Pediatric Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department Due to Domestic Accidents During the Pandemic Period

INTRODUCTION: This study aims to examine pediatric emergency department visits due to domestic accidents during the COVID-19 pandemic. It focuses on analyzing the clinical features, underlying causes, and parental attitudes during increased home confinement.

METHODS: This prospective observational study investigates the impact of pandemic-related lockdowns on children and parents, specifically their association with domestic accidents. Patients under 18 years old, who present with domestic accidents and with parental consent, were included. Data collected included demographics, trauma mechanisms, injury locations, and emergency department outcomes. After which discharge, parents were surveyed about their educational and employment status, behavioral changes in their children, and perceptions of accident rates during the pandemic.
RESULTS: The median age of patients was 5 years (1-11), with 34.5% (n=20) being female. Falls were the most common cause of trauma (79.3%, n=46), with head injuries occurring in 44.8% (n=26). The majority (91.4%, n=53) attributed the accidents to carelessness. Additionally, 60.3% (n=35) reported behavioral changes in their children due to staying at home, and 74.1% (n=15) believed domestic accidents increased during the pandemic. Behavioral changes were particularly notable among school-age children (p<0.001). Families with sibling care, lower parental education levels, and higher hospital admission rates had increased behavioral changes (p=0.020, p=0.008, p<0.001, p=0.011).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The quarantine period during the pandemic significantly impacted both parents and children, increasing the risk of domestic accidents. The study highlights that caregiver awareness and education are crucial in preventing such incidents. Regular parental training at community health centers can reduce accident frequency and improve outcomes.