Emergency care in Brazil: factors leading to clinically inappropriate use of emergency care among young adult users in the Brazilian context.

Background: This study aims to investigate the prevalence and associated risk factors of inappropriate use of emergency services among young adults in Vitória, Brazil.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over 30 consecutive days in November and December 2019, involving systematic random sampling of young adults (aged 18-39) visiting the municipal emergency care unit. Data were collected through structured interviews, utilizing the Hospital Urgency Appropriateness Protocol (HUAP) to identify inappropriate use. Demographic characteristics, healthcare utilization patterns, and medical diagnoses were assessed. Poisson regression models were employed to explore associations between variables.

Results: Among the 631 young adults surveyed, 30.6% exhibited inappropriate use of the emergency care unit. Factors associated with higher rates of inappropriate use included not seeking previous care in other healthcare services; having specific medical diagnoses like diseases of the respiratory system (PR: 2.03), diseases of the skin (PR: 4.13), and diseases of the ear and mastoid (PR: 3.74).

Conclusion: The study underscores the significance of addressing inappropriate use of emergency services among young adults. Though the prevalence of inappropriate use was not significantly different from other age groups, the demographic characteristics and healthcare utilization patterns of young adults contribute to their unique challenges. To mitigate inappropriate use, efforts should focus on improving access to primary healthcare services, enhancing continuity of care, and raising awareness about appropriate healthcare-seeking behaviors among young adults. Ultimately, these interventions can foster a more effective and sustainable healthcare system that better serves the needs of the community.