Author(s)

Lesi Ngozi Omemu^*, Diuto Akani

Affiliation(s)

Africa Centre of Excellence in Public Health and Toxicological Research, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.

Corresponding Author

Lesi Ngozi Omemu

ABSTRACT

This comparative study analyzed age-related childhood injury patterns across four age groups in selected model primary healthcare centers in Port Harcourt metropolis (mPHCs). The research design was a descriptive study. The study population comprised 50 pediatric nurses from the mPHCs. Census sampling selected all eligible nurses. A self-structured instrument, age-related childhood injury patterns questionnaire, elicited data on injury trends. Expert review and pilot testing ensured validity and a Cronbach's alpha of 0.75 confirmed reliability. Data collection involved self-administered 50 copies of questionnaire distributed to participants. Descriptive statistics addressed the research questions on injury types and prevalence per age group. Inferential statistics using Chi-square and Likelihood ratio analyzed variable associations and tested hypotheses on age-injury associations. Key findings showed distinctive injury profiles for infants, toddlers, young children, and adolescents, indicating age as a major determinant of childhood injury patterns. Bruises, minor burns and ingestions predominated among infants and toddlers while cuts, fractures, and sprains were more prevalent in older groups. Injury prevalence per age revealed 1-5 years as the highest risk group. Inferential statistics confirmed significant associations between age and injuries like ingestion, sprains, and fractures. The study concluded that recognizing age-specific injury patterns is vital to guide targeted interventions and protocols for childhood injury prevention and management within pediatric primary care. Recommendations included developmental screening, age-appropriate parental education, and multi-sectoral collaboration to bolster child safety.

KEYWORDS

Age-Related; Childhood injury patterns; Ingestion; Sprains; Fractures

CITE THIS PAPER

Lesi Ngozi Omemu, Diuto Akani. Age-related patterns of childhood injuries in port Harcourt metropolis hospitals: A comparative study across four age groups. World Journal of Clinical Sciences. 2024, 2(2): 23-29. DOI: 10.61784/wjcs3004.

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