Risk Factors for Mortality Among Patients Admitted to a COVID-19 Isolation Ward at Clairwood Hospital, South Africa

Riziki Ghislain Manimani; Tambwe Willy Muzumbukilwa; Nombulelo Magula; Hlolisile Wilbroda Chiya

doi:10.25159/2520-5293/20940

Authors

Riziki Ghislain Manimani University of KwaZulu-Natal https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4053-0236
Tambwe Willy Muzumbukilwa University of KwaZulu-Natal
Nombulelo Magula University of KwaZulu-Natal
Hlolisile Wilbroda Chiya University of KwaZulu-Natal

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2520-5293/20940

Keywords:

COVID-19, isolation, mortality, risk factors

Abstract

The global outbreak of the novel coronavirus resulted in substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide, with a marked increase in hospitalisations and in-hospital deaths. This study investigated the relationship between in-hospital mortality and various risk factors among patients admitted directly in COVID-19 isolation ward. Individual-related factors included pre-existing comorbidities such as renal disease, HIV and tuberculosis, pulmonary embolism, diabetes mellitus, hypertension and stroke. Human resources-related factors encompassed staff challenges, including an inadequate number of doctors and nurses, absenteeism among healthcare workers and a lack of adequately trained nursing staff. Organisational-related factors comprised medical supply and services constraints, including shortages of oxygen, the absence of an on-site laboratory and prolonged laboratory turnaround times. This study underscores the multifaceted nature of factors contributing to patient mortality in a resource-constrained setting. Addressing these risk factors is critical for improving patient outcomes and implementing effective interventions.

Author Biography

Riziki Ghislain Manimani, University of KwaZulu-Natal

Center of Research in Natural Sciences of Lwiro (CRSN/Lwiro), Bukavu, DRC.

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