Abstract
Background: A common method engaged in suicide is deliberate self-poisoning (DSP). Substances implicated in DSP include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, drugs, household chemicals, agro...
Highlights
Suicide is a worldwide phenomenon resulting in the deaths of more than 800 000 people each year.[1]
260 deliberate self-poisoning (DSP) patients presented at the emergency department during the study period
The majority of the patients resided in areas associated with low socioeconomic status, which include informal settlements, farms and townships
Summary
Suicide is a worldwide phenomenon resulting in the deaths of more than 800 000 people each year.[1]. This study aimed to determine the profile of patients treated for DSP at the emergency department of Pelonomi Regional Hospital, Bloemfontein, between January 2010 and July 2011. A profile of DSP cases will allow practitioners in this region to be aware of the magnitude, causes and common substances used, which will enable them to plan and execute an adequate management protocol to reduce mortality. All DSP patients treated during the 18-month study period were identified from the emergency department register. Files for 212 (81.5%) patients had sufficient information and were included in the study. Two-thirds (66.0%, n = 140) of the patients were female and the highest percentage was in the age group 20–29 years (44.8%, n = 94). Most resided in areas associated with low socioeconomic status, including informal settlements, farms and townships. Conclusion: This study showed that DSP mostly occurred among females in the age group 20–29 years. Most of the patients resided in areas with poor socioeconomic status, and faced relationship, marital, employment and other psychosocioeconomic problems
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