Keywords
clinical profile
outcomes
tetanus
N’Djili General Referral Hospital
How to Cite
Abstract
Introduction
Tetanus remains a potentially fatal bacterial infection that affects the nervous system. Although there is no cure, the disease can be effectively prevented through vaccination.
Purpose
This study aimed to determine the prevalence, clinical profile, and outcomes of tetanus cases admitted to the intensive care unit.
Methods
This was a descriptive, retrospective study conducted at the N’Djili General Referral Hospital, located in the Tshiangu Health District of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo. All patients admitted with tetanus to the intensive care unit between 2018 and 2021 constituted the study population. Data were collected from archived medical records, with a total of 51 patient files available for analysis.
Results
The prevalence of tetanus between 2018 and 2021 was 5.3 per 100 intensive care unit admissions, corresponding to approximately six cases. The cutaneous route, mainly through traumatic skin wounds, was the principal portal of entry for Clostridium tetani (70.58%). Injuries occurred predominantly in the community (80%), and post-traumatic care was provided by trained personnel in 72.54% of cases. In most patients, initial symptoms appeared 2 to 9 days after injury (47.05%). A total of 82.35% of patients were referred from peripheral health centres after observation and first aid. Recent wounds (less than 15 days old) accounted for 96.07% of cases, and no patient had received a booster dose of the tetanus vaccine. The length of hospital stay ranged from 1 to 10 days in 70.58% of patients. Mortality was 45%, while 55% of patients were discharged with recovery.
Conclusion
Tetanus remains a significant public health concern in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Community education on injury management, strengthening healthcare workers’ capacity in tetanus prophylaxis, and implementing booster vaccination programmes are essential strategies to reduce the burden of tetanus.
References
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