Mortality Patterns in the Accident and Emergency Unit of Rivers State University Teaching Hospital

Abstract

The Accident and Emergency Department (AED) is the primary entry point into health institutions, providing insights into disease burden, patient outcomes, and quality of care. This study assessed the mortality pattern in the AED of Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH). This was a retrospective review of mortality records from both the Children Emergency Room (CHER) and Adult Emergency Unit (AEU) of RSUTH between January and December 2024. Data on patient demographics, causes of death, and duration of stay before death were extracted from medical records and nurses’ registers. The results show that out of 5,035 admissions during the study period, 588 patients (11.7%) died, comprising 90 (15%) in CHER and 498 (85%) in AEU. The male-to-female ratio was 1.2:1, with 53% male deaths. Mortality was highest among patients aged 60–79 years (33%), followed by 40–59 years (31%) and 20–39 years (12.5%). Cardiovascular diseases were the leading causes of death (32%), followed by infectious diseases (26%) and other non-communicable diseases (24%). Chronic kidney disease accounted for most deaths related to sugar-related conditions (11%). Most deaths occurred within 24 hours of admission (46.2%). Patients with cardiac-related diseases had the highest fatality risk, being 16 times more likely to die compared with other conditions. Mortality in the AED of RSUTH was substantial, with cardiovascular diseases as the leading cause and middle-aged to elderly patients most affected. The high proportion of deaths within 24 hours highlights the need for early intervention and improved emergency care services. The study recommended among others that, healthcare system should be strengthened through strengthening emergency response systems which will enhance the capacity of healthcare personnel through targeted training.