Background: Acute poisoning in children is a major global public health concern, influenced by diverse social, economic, and cultural factors. Regional epidemiological studies are essential for prevention and effective management. Due to the scarcity of recent research in Iran on children aged 5–10 years, this study aimed to evaluate the epidemiological, toxicological, and clinical outcomes of poisoning in this age group.
Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on children aged 5–10 years admitted to the poisoning emergency ward of Khorshid Hospital, Isfahan, between 2021 and 2023. Data collected included age, sex, type of toxic agent, route of exposure, length of hospital stay, therapeutic interventions, underlying diseases, and outcomes. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.
Findings: A total of 69 children were included. The most common cause of poisoning was medications (53.6%), followed by pesticides and envenomation (25.7%), narcotics (18.6%), alcohol (1.4%), and gas exposure (1.4%). The mean age was 7.27 years, and 55.1% were male. The mean time from exposure to hospital admission was 33.5 hours, and the mean duration of hospitalization was 17.12 hours. No cases of substance dependence, suicide attempt, or institutional care were reported. Most children (78.3%) recovered completely, while 17.4% were discharged against medical advice. No significant associations were found between age, sex, toxic agent, and outcomes.
Conclusion: Drug poisoning was the most frequent type among children aged 5–10 years. Preventive strategies, particularly family education, are necessary. Larger studies are recommended to further investigate confounding factors and long-term outcomes.