TY  - JOUR
PY  - 1997//
TI  - The identification and management of self-mutilating patients in primary care
JO  - Nurse practitioner
A1  - Dallam, S. J.
SP  - 151
EP  - 3, 159
VL  - 22
IS  - 5
N2  - Self-mutilation has been described as a complex group of behaviors resulting in the deliberate destruction of body tissue without conscious suicidal intent. Clinical reports suggest that many adults who engage in self-destructive behavior have childhood histories of trauma and disrupted parental care. Painless cutting after a period of depersonalization, followed by relaxation and repersonalization after bleeding, is the typical pattern reported. Complications include social rejection and condemnation as a response both to the behavior or the resulting disfigurement. The most serious complication of self-mutilation is death as a direct result of damage inflicted on the body or from a drug overdose. Primary care providers are in an excellent position to identify and intervene in self-injurious behavior. Establishing a trusting relationship appears to be the most critical component of assessing and treating the client who self-mutilates. Psychotherapy and psychotropic medications, though not specific to self-mutilation, remain the most compelling treatment options.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>
LA  - en
SN  - 0361-1817
UR  - http://dx.doi.org/
ID  - ref1
ER  -