The prediction of discharge from in-patient psychiatric rehabilitation: a case-control study
2011

Predicting Discharge from Psychiatric Rehabilitation

Sample size: 65 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Bredski Joanna, Watson Andrew, Mountain Debbie A, Clunie Fiona, Lawrie Stephen M

Primary Institution: Royal Edinburgh Hospital

Hypothesis

What factors are associated with achieving discharge from in-patient psychiatric rehabilitation?

Conclusion

People admitted later in the study period required longer rehabilitation admissions and had higher rates of serious self harm and treatment resistant illness.

Supporting Evidence

  • Serious self harm and suicide attempts were significantly associated with non-discharge.
  • Treatment with high dose antipsychotics was significantly associated with non-discharge.
  • Antipsychotic polypharmacy was significantly associated with non-discharge.
  • Previous care in forensic psychiatric services was significantly associated with non-discharge.

Takeaway

This study looked at why some people with mental health issues stay in the hospital longer than others. It found that those who had more serious problems were less likely to go home.

Methodology

A case-control study comparing two groups: 34 discharged patients and 31 non-discharged patients, analyzing demographic, illness, treatment, and risk variables.

Potential Biases

There may be bias due to the lack of clarity on whether high dose antipsychotics were prescribed in some cases.

Limitations

The study did not measure and correct for symptom severity, which may have influenced the associations found.

Participant Demographics

Participants included 34 discharged and 31 non-discharged patients, with no significant differences in age, sex, or diagnosis.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.0003

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-244X-11-149

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