Abstract

In this retrospective study, the case notes of all road traffic accident (RTA) victims admitted to one hospital during a 12 month period (1986-1987) were analysed. One hundred and twenty five patients were identified. The male/female ratio was 2:1 and the mean age was 34 years. The peak time of hospital arrival was midnight-1 am (18 cases, 15.6%) followed by the period 21.00-22.00 (10 cases, 18.6%. A total of 84 cases (73%) arrived between 17.00-8.00. The mean time spent in the accident and emergency department was 180 minutes. The severity of the victims' injuries was evaluated, using the Injury Severity Score (ISS). The mean ISS score was 9, with a range 1-75. There was a 33% mortality for patients with an ISS of 12 or more. Initial assessment of the RTA victims was performed by the SHO in 77% and by the registrar in 23% of cases. It is paramount that RTA victims with multiple injuries are rapidly transferred to an appropriate centre with the necessary expertise and facilities.