IJCM_290A: Death Audit Analysis from a single Covid-19 DCH of Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

Background: In response to the escalating Covid-19-related fatalities in smaller towns and villages, the State Government initiated a daily death audit through the Death Audit Committee in each district. The aim of committee was to comprehensively review Covid-19-related deaths, utilizing the findings to inform policy decisions and prevent future mortalities. Objectives: To gain critical insights into the circumstances surrounding Covid-19 deaths, aiding in the identification of gaps and the development of strategies to avert future fatalities. Methodology: It was a cross-sectional study conducted in DCH Datia, the research encompassed all Covid-19-related deaths in Datia and Niwari districts during the first and second waves of the pandemic. The study period extended from March 2020 to July 2021, encompassing both waves. A total of 118 death audits were conducted by the Govt. Medical College Datia team, covering aspects such as age, gender, duration of ICU admission, comorbidities, and treatment including Remdesivir administration. Results: The second wave exhibited a significantly higher death rate (11.7%) compared to the first wave (0.04%). Among the 118 death audits, males accounted for 70 deaths (59.32%), with a majority (24.28%) occurring in the 51-60 age group. The presence of comorbidities (42.37%) was linked to increased mortality. Longer stay was associated with increased mortality. Remdesivir was administered in 39.83% of cases. Conclusion: The study underscores the heightened risk associated with long duration of stay and the impact of comorbidities on mortality. Further research on the efficacy of Remdesivir is warranted. The findings may help in shaping the policy & strategy in future outbreaks both at district & state level