Patient characteristics and behaviours associated with self-harm and attempted suicide in acute psychiatric wards

Abstract

Aims and objectives: The study examined events before and after incidents of self-harm and attempted suicide and the characteristics of patients who engage in these behaviours.

Background: Psychiatric inpatient populations have an elevated risk of self-harm and suicide, but relatively little is known about the circumstances of these events during an admission.

Design: Retrospective case note analysis.

Method: Data were collected on conflict (aggression, rule breaking, etc.) and containment (coerced medication, restraint, etc.) during the first two weeks of admission for a sample of 522 acute psychiatric inpatients.

Results: One in 10 patients self-harmed, and 4% attempted suicide. Aggression, attempting to leave the ward without permission and medication refusal were frequent precursors to incidents. Pro re nata medication and de-escalation were the most frequent interventions to follow an incident. Self-harm and attempted suicides during the current admission were significantly associated with younger age and a history of self-harm.

Conclusions: A minority of the sample were involved in these behaviours, but incidents occurred soon after admission and sometimes repeatedly during the course of a day. Assessment of risk should be completed as early as possible.

Relevance to clinical practice: At-risk patients should be monitored for signs of withdrawal from ward activity, wanting to leave the ward without permission or non-compliance with medication to enable early intervention.