PROFILE OF ADMISSIONS INTO THE COVID-19 INTENSIVE CARE UNIT

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), also known as severe acute respiratory distress syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus is a highly contagious nouvelle member of coronavirus family responsible for the current pandemic. The disease caused affects mainly the lungs but could also affect other organ systems in the body. Advanced age and comorbidities are risk factors for the development of severe infections requiring intensive care unit (ICU) care. Methodology: The study was carried out at the COVID-19 ICU located within the Mainland hospital, Yaba, Lagos. Data were collected and inputted into the statistical product and services solution (SPSS) software and analysed. Qualitative data were expressed as frequencies and percentages while quantitative data were represented as median or mean and standard deviation. Results: A total of 70 patients were admitted into the ICU during the study period; 49 males versus 21 females. Median age was 58 years. Comorbidities present included hypertension (72.9%), diabetes (35.7%) and obesity (8.6%). There were overlaps in comorbidities, with hypertension. Both hypertension and diabetes were found in 30% of the patients. Hypertension and obesity noted in 2.9%, while obesity and diabetes were also found in 2.9% of the patients. Conclusion: Male gender, hypertension and diabetes are common risk factors for severe disease and ICU admission. Key words: COVID-19, Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Admissions.