|
Abstract
|
Suicide attempts (SA) have been recognized among the most important predictors of suicide.
AIM: The aim of this study was to assess suicidal ideation, socio-demographic and clinical characteristics in patients admitted to the emergency room for a SA and to identify factors associated with clinical outcome. Admission to a Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit and further SA within one year were considered.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients that agreed to participate in the study were evaluated in the emergency room with a clinical interview and they were administered the Intent Score Scale. Patients were then contacted and interviewed by telephone 1, 6, and 12 months after the SA. Clinical outcomes and the occurrence of new SA were investigated.
RESULTS: Seventy-four patients were enrolled and 49, 24, and 20 patients were reassessed at the 1, 6, and 12 month follow-up respectively. Eight patients reported at least one new SA within one year. Six SA occurred within the first month. Unemployment and underemployment were significantly associated with further SA. The time interval before a new SA was longer for patients admitted at the Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit and shorter for those with high suicidal intent at the first SA.
CONCLUSIONS: Although with limitations, our study might suggest that future research should focus on the role of hospitalization in the management of SA.
Language: it |