Mortality Analysis of Geriatric Patients Who Fell Off The Stretcher in The Emergency Department: A Retrospective Clinical Study

Abstract

Aim: In this study, we wanted to examine the injuries, mortality, length of stay in the emergency department, and length of hospital stay of geriatric patients who applied to the emergency department after falling off the stretcher in the emergency department, and to determine which characteristics of the patients caused these problems. Material and Methods: The study was conducted retrospectively and the data of patients who fell off the stretcher in the emergency department between January 1, 2020 and December 31, 2022 were examined. Patient records and electronic system data were used in the study. The patients' demographic information, chief complaints, fall details, Itachi fall score, length of hospital stay, and mortality were documented. Results: The results of a total of 87 patients who fell off the stretcher in the Emergency Department were analyzed. The median age of the patients was 69 years (range 18-95). 56 of these patients were 65 years of age or older. Death occurred due to falls in 2 of our patients (2.3%). The median Itachi score in patients aged 65 and over was determined as 8 (1-26). Mortality due to falls was significantly related to cranial trauma (p<0.001). Conclusion: Geriatric patients falling off the stretcher in the emergency department is more mortal. Measures must be taken to prevent it.