COVID-19 patients and their management in a tertiary care center in Nepal

Introduction: Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) is a novel infectious disease. Generally, supportive management is provided according to each patient's need. The objective of this study was to find out clinical features of COVID-19, pharmacological measures employed and approximate total cost of the drugs for COVID-19 cases in a tertiary care center. Methods: The retrospective study was carried from records of COVID-19 patients visiting KIST Medical College and Teaching Hospital between 4th June 2020 to 31st January 2021. Out of 541 patients, a systematic random sampling was performed. Every fourth case was selected for study with a sample size of 136 patients. Data was collected using a structured and piloted proforma. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed. Results: Severity of COVID-19 was categorized as mild, moderate and severe in 101 (74.3%), 28 (20.6%) and 7 (5.1%) patients respectively. 130 patients were managed in isolation ward, 10 patients required intensive care and 1 patient needed ventilator support. Supplemental oxygen was provided to 31 patients. Most common medicines used were vitamin C (90.4%), vitamin D (90.4%), Zinc (90.4%) and Pantoprazole (72.8%). Remdesivir was used in 21 (15.4 %) patients. 127 patients were discharged, 5 patients died and 4 patients were referred to other centers. Average total approximate cost of drugs was Nepalese Rupees 8966.4. Conclusion: The most frequently used medicines were vitamin C, vitamin D, Zinc and Pantoprazole. The average cost for medicines is quite high in regard to per capita income of Nepal. Thus, effective preventive measures are required to control COVID-19 pandemic.