Factors Influencing Visits to the Pediatric Emergency Department

Abstract

Introduction Overcrowding in emergency departments (EDs) is still a national and international issue. Among the variables contributing to this crisis are an increase in patient numbers and the severity of sickness. One significant issue that has not yet been addressed and is burdening healthcare facilities is the use of EDs by parents of children who have mild illnesses. Developing successful interventions requires an understanding of the factors that lead to nonurgent visits to pediatric EDs (PEDs). Our objective was to assess the variables that could influence parental visits to PEDs. Methodology In the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia, between September and November 2023, a descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among parents who had previously visited a PED. The survey had 21 questions. Along with parental viewpoints and healthcare utilization, parents' evaluations of their child's emergency state were investigated. In addition to gathering and evaluating demographic data, the survey evaluated respondents' impressions of the severity of a disease or injury. Results A total of 776 participants were included in the study. The mean parental age was 32.1 ± 12.7 years, and approximately 32.1% of the participants' children were between the ages of 1 and 5. Nearly half of the children, 44.7%, visited the ED during the evening shift. The most common reasons for presenting were fever (50.5%) and upper respiratory tract symptoms (37.1%). Among these visits, parents perceived 48.5% as nonurgent and 30.2% as urgent. The majority of respondents (54.9%) had received advice before going to the ED. In most cases (47.9%), this was from a relative or a healthcare provider (16.7%). Conclusion This analysis identified some of the reasons parents bring their children to the ED for mild illnesses. The results emphasized the varied nature of the problem. Understanding the reasons for parental ED visits may help us better design targeted interventions to decrease unnecessary visits and lessen the burden on healthcare systems.

Keywords: ambulatory care; emergency department; nonurgent visits; pediatric emergency department; saudi arabia; urgency of illness.

Figure 1. Reported baby problems that caused parents to visit the ED, Eastern Region, Saudi Arabia

Figure 2. Reasons that made parents decide to go to the ED, Eastern Region, Saudi Arabia

Figure 3. Degree of parents' confidence to look after a child who is sick/injured, Eastern Region, Saudi Arabia