Outcomes and drug-related admissions
of cardiovascular patients in the emergency
department at Tikur Anbessa Specialized
Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Outcomes and drug-related admissions
of cardiovascular patients in the emergency
department at Tikur Anbessa Specialized
Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Cardiovascular disease, Survival, Drug-related emergency admission, Drug-related problems

Abstract
Introduction Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally, with a rising prevalence. The
increase in medications, recognized conditions, and polypharmacy has led to more drug-related problems and
emergency admissions among patients with CVD, negatively affecting healthcare outcomes and increasing morbidity
and mortality.
Objective This study aimed to assess outcomes of patients with CVD in the Emergency Department (ED) of
Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH), the frequency of drug-related admissions, and factors associated with
admissions and outcomes.
Methods This prospective observational study included all patients with cardiovascular disease who presented to
the Adult ED of TASH between September and December 2022, provided informed consent, and were taking at least
one medication for their cardiovascular condition. Admission outcomes and prevalence of drug-related emergency
admissions were calculated as percentages. Kaplan-Meier survival, Cox regression, and logistic regression analyses
were used to estimate ED survival, factors associated with survival, and factors related to drug-related emergency
admissions, respectively.
Results Among 401 patients with CVD admitted to the ED, 23% had drug-related emergency admissions (DREAs),
with non-adherence accounting for 58.4% of these cases. The overall ED mortality rate was 9.5%, with acute
decompensated heart failure (ADHF) being the leading cause of death. Smoking history, dilated cardiomyopathy,
gastrointestinal comorbidities, atrial fibrillation, and polypharmacy were significant predictors of early mortality.
The most common ED admission diagnoses were congestive heart failure/ADHF (37.4%) and hypertension (26.2%),
and diuretics, especially furosemide, were the most frequently prescribed medications. Additionally, polypharmacy,
smoking, younger age (<18 years), longer disease duration, and marital status were significantly associated with a
higher risk of DREAs.

Hikma Husein1

, Tamrat Assefa Tadesse1*, Alemu Belayneh1

, Merahi Kefyalew2

, Mesfin Ayalew Tsegaye3
,

Elias Gashaw Endegnanew3

, Matyas Wondwossen Elssa3

and Eskinder Ayalew Sisay1

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12245-025-01029-5

2025

Peri Irawan

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