Citation

Klay M, Jaccard C, Othenin-Girard N, Suard F, Berger JP. Schweiz. Med. Wochenschr. 1993; 123(31-32): 1508-1515.

Vernacular Title

Morbidite psychiatrique dans le service de medecine d'un hopital general non

Affiliation

Service de médecine, Hôpital Le Samaritain, Vevey.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1993, EMH Swiss Medical Publishers)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

8372335

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the nature and extent of psychiatric pathology in the internal medicine service of a small general hospital. During a three months' period, 315 consecutive patients were enrolled in this prospective study. 92 persons (29% of the admitted patients) exhibited a psychiatric disorder which was recognized by the internists and then discussed with the psychiatric team. The disorders were diagnosed according to the DSM-III-R classification. The age of the patients with psychiatric disorders was lower (median 56 years versus 63 years) and women were more numerous. In 75% of cases the psychiatric problem influenced medical management. A psychiatric consultation was indicated in 12%. Concerning the nature of this pathology, 29% of the 120 diagnoses established in these 92 patients were linked to the use of psychoactive substances; alcohol and male sex predominated. Among the women, anxio-depressive and personality disorders predominated. Two-thirds of the patients were sent to a general practitioner following their discharge from the hospital. The role of the general hospital as a site of care for these patients is discussed. It can be considered positive if a good climate of cooperation exists with the psychiatric team.

Language: fr