Epidemiological profile of cases of exogenous intoxication due to medication error

Abstract

Introduction: Exogenous intoxication is characterized by exposure to a toxic substance that will result in bodily dysfunctions, which may occur due to the use of household products, contaminated food and the use of medication or other chemical substances. Objective: To identify the epidemio­logical profile of poisoning due to medication errors in the State of Piauí between the years 2017 and 2021. Methods: This is an epidemiological, descriptive study with a quantitative approach, carried out with secondary data from the Information System for Diseases of Notification (SINAN), obtained from the website of the Department of Informatics of the Unified Health System (DATASUS). The study was based on 52 reports of poisoning due to medication errors in the State of Piauí, with data collection being carried out in June 2022. Results: 52 cases of exogenous intoxication due to medica­tion errors were reported. Of these, 26.9% occurred between 20 and 39 years old, 17.3% in individuals who did not complete elementary school and 55.8% are of mixed race. With regard to clinical char­acteristics, there was a predominance of single-acute exposure (67.3%), with confirmed intoxication in 67.3% of cases and evolution to cure without sequelae in 57.7% of cases. Conclusion: The profile is composed of brown individuals, 20 and 39 years, with a level of education marked by low education and similar frequency between both sexes. The need for health education actions is evident in order to guide the population regarding the indiscriminate use of medicines and the importance of consultations and medical prescriptions.