Citation

Martínez-Trujillo ML, Rocha-Castillo J, Clavel-Arcas C, Mack KA. Salud Publica Mex. 2011; 53(2): 116-124.

Affiliation

Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Nicaragua, León, Nicaragua.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Instituto Nacional de Salud Publica)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

21537802

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To describe the circumstances of fall-related injuries among youth 0-19 years treated in emergency departments in Nicaragua; to estimate the incidence rates (IR) of falls; and, to identify areas for prevention efforts. MATERIAL AND METHODS: All patients <20 years who were residents of Managua, León, Jinotepe, and Ciudad Sandino (6593) were selected for analysis. Data were collected with the 2004 Injury Surveillance System. RESULTS: In 2004, the IR of falls for youth <20 years old was 104.2 incidents per 10000 persons. The IR for male youth was twice that of female youth. Overall, trees (23.3%) and beds (15.2%) were the main objects involved in falls. Fractures were the leading injuries sustained. CONCLUSIONS: This study identifies three areas that can be addressed: furniture, recreation, and physical environment. Interventions that may be most useful for caregivers and adolescents include changes in the home environment and recreation play areas, as well as educational programs.

Language: en