Changes in alcohol-related emergency department presentations-a comparison of three waves in 2013, 2017 and 2022.
N Z Med J
; 137(1593): 56-67, 2024 Apr 12.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38603787
ABSTRACT
AIMS:
Emergency departments (EDs) around the world are increasingly overcrowded, which is associated with significant patient harm. Alcohol use is a known contributor to ED overcrowding. This study aimed to assess trends in the characteristics of alcohol-related ED presentations over time.METHODS:
A cross-sectional observational study of Christchurch ED attendances during 3-week waves of data collection in November-December 2013, 2017 and 2022 was conducted. Potential participants were those patients attending the Christchurch Hospital ED who had ingested alcohol in the 4 hours prior to arrival, and/or the presentation was thought to be related to alcohol. Those who consented to take part were interviewed to examine amount and source of alcohol.RESULTS:
There has been a change in the age profile towards a greater proportion of older patients attending the ED with alcohol-related issues. In 2022, a greater proportion of alcohol was purchased from on-licence venues compared to previous years, although off-licence alcohol purchase and consumption in private locations remained the most common.CONCLUSION:
Alcohol use and harm places a significant, yet preventable, burden on EDs and the wider healthcare system. Implementation of evidence-based alcohol policies is urgently needed to reduce the impact of alcohol in the ED and improve the health of communities.
Texto completo:
1
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Consumo de Bebidas Alcoólicas
/
Transtornos Relacionados ao Uso de Álcool
Limite:
Humans
País/Região como assunto:
Oceania
Idioma:
En
Revista:
N Z Med J
Ano de publicação:
2024
Tipo de documento:
Article
País de afiliação:
Nova Zelândia