The data for the study presented in this scientific poster were obtained from the records of 500 major trauma patients admitted to Parkview Hospital in the US state of Indiana, 1996-1999. The results show that single auto crash and auto-to-auto comprised respectively 36.8% (n=184) and 57.6% (n=288) of the total crashes, occurring mainly in June to September. Different types of vehicles were involved in single and auto-to-auto crashes, and each type produced different life-threatening impacts that resulted in loss of life. Another conclusion is that age and blood alcohol concentration are important determinants in causing auto crashes. The study demonstrates that the utilisation of qualitative information in a trauma registry can generate useful findings for educative purposes in the prevention of auto crashes.
Abstract