Citation

Levene S, Bonfield G. Arch. Dis. Child. 1991; 66(9): 1047-1049.

Affiliation

Child Accident Prevention Trust, London.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1991, BMJ Publishing Group)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

1929510

PMCID

PMC1793035

Abstract

Eight hospitals reported 781 non-iatrogenic accidents occurring to patients and visitors under 16 years of age during an 18 month period up to October 1989. Accidents more often involved boys and children aged 3 to 5 years old. Falls from a height, slips, and striking accidents were common by day and falls by night. A total of 41% of accidents to inpatients occurred when parents were present. Only three accidents were serious. Altogether 27% involved beds and cots, and only one consequent injury was more than minor. Data collected routinely in case of medicolegal action can be presented in a form that may facilitate preventative work. Potentially remediable causes for concern include falls from beds and cots and the use of makeshift equipment.

Language: en