Accidental injury

Accidental Injury refers to an unplanned, unexpected, and undesigned (not purposefully caused) event which occurs suddenly and causes (1) injury or (2) damage to property. Accidental injuries may result from car accidents, falls, burns, drowning, poisoning, and other causes. They are a major cause of death and disability worldwide, particularly in children and young adults.

Causes

Accidental injuries can occur in a variety of settings and can be caused by a wide range of factors. Some of the most common causes include motor vehicle accidents, falls, sports injuries, and accidents in the home or workplace. Other causes can include natural disasters, such as earthquakes or floods, and incidents involving animals, such as bites or stings.

Prevention

Prevention of accidental injuries involves a combination of measures, including education, engineering controls, and enforcement of safety regulations. This can include things like wearing seat belts in cars, using safety equipment in sports, and following safety procedures in the workplace.

Treatment

Treatment for accidental injuries depends on the nature and severity of the injury. This can range from first aid treatment at the scene of the accident, to emergency medical treatment in a hospital. In some cases, long-term rehabilitation may be required.

See also

• First aid
• Emergency medicine
• Trauma (medicine)
• Injury prevention