Incidence of intoxication events and patient outcomes in Taiwan: A nationwide population-based observational study

Intoxicated patients were frequently managed in the emergency departments (ED) with few studies at national level. The study aimed to reveal the incidence, outcomes of intoxications and trend in Taiwan.

Adults admitted to an ED due to an intoxication event between 2006 and 2013 were identified using the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. The rate of intoxication and severe intoxication events, mortality rate, hospital length of stay (LOS), and daily medical costs of these patients were analyzed. Changes over time were analyzed using Joinpoint models. Multivariable generalized regressions with GEE were used to assess the effect of sex, age, and presence of prior psychiatric illness.

A total of 20,371 ED admissions due to intoxication events were identified during the study period, and the incidence decreased with annual percentage change of 4.7% from 2006 to 2013. The mortality rate, hospital LOS, and daily medical costs were not decreased over time. Males and geriatric patients had more severe intoxication events, greater mortality rates, and greater daily medical costs. Patients with psychiatric illnesses had higher mortality rates and a longer hospital LOS, but lower daily medical expenses.

From 2006 to 2013, there was a decline in the incidence of ED admission for intoxication events in Taiwan. Males, geriatric patients, and those with psychiatric illnesses had greater risks for severe intoxication and mortality.