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Article History

Received: 15 May 2024

Accepted: 28 May 2025

First Online: 1 July 2025

Declarations

:

: Ethical approval was obtained from the SFNH Research and Ethics Committee (Approval number SFHN-2022-61). Permission was also obtained from the heads of the Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit, and relevant wards. Informed consent was obtained from all participants after clearly explaining the research objectives and procedures upon arrival in the Emergency Department. For patients who were unconscious or unable to provide consent at the time of admission, consent was deferred until the patient regained capacity or was obtained from a legally authorized representative. This study was conducted following the National Guidelines for Research Involving Humans as Research Participants by the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (UNCST) and adhered to the ethical principles outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki. To maintain confidentiality, all collected data were anonymized, with unique identifiers assigned to each participant. No personal identifiers, such as names or hospital numbers, were included in the dataset. Data were stored on a password-protected hard drive accessible only to the principal investigator. Hard copies of data collection tools were securely stored in a locked cabinet within the hospital premises.

: Not Applicable.

: The authors declare no competing interests.