Contributing factors in self-poisoning leading to hospital admission in adolescents in northern Finland

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the frequencies of different agents used in self-poisonings and acute factors contributing to intoxication of patients aged 12-18 years in northern Finland.

Material: Retrospective medical record review of all hospitalized patients during the period from January 1, 1991 to December 31, 2006.

Outcome measures: Cause of the admission, contributing factors, readmissions within one year.

Results: There were 309 admissions during the period, 54% were females. The leading cause of admission was alcohol, in 222 cases (71.8%). Hospitalizations related to alcohol consumption were associated with accidental poisoning in recreational use. There were no acute contributing factors in the majority of all patients. Over one-third of all intoxications were intentional self-harm, although previously diagnosed psychiatric diseases were rare.

Conclusions: It is crucial to recognize adolescent psychiatric disorders in time and consult child and adolescent psychiatrist in case of poisoning.