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Published Online: February 2013

Characteristics of Frequent Users of an Acute Psychiatric Inpatient Unit: A Five-Year Study in Portugal

Joao Graca, M.D., Catarina Klut, M.D., Bruno Trancas, M.D., Nuno Borja-Santos, M.D., M.Sc., and Graça Cardoso, M.D., Ph.D.Authors Info & Affiliations
Publication: Psychiatric Services
Volume 64, Number 2
https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ps.000782012
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Abstract

Objective

This study examined demographic and clinical characteristics of frequent users of a psychiatric inpatient unit in Portugal.

Methods

Data (2004–2008) for 1,348 consecutive psychiatric inpatients were reviewed. Frequent users (N=137), who had at least three admissions in the study period, were compared with nonfrequent users (N=1,211) on age, gender, race-ethnicity, diagnosis, and compulsory admissions. Data were analyzed with chi square and Student’s t tests.

Results

Frequent users accounted for 29% of admissions. They were significantly younger than nonfrequent users (39±14 versus 44±17, p<.001), and a larger proportion had compulsory admissions (28% versus 14%, p<.001). The frequent user group also had significantly higher rates of bipolar disorder (61% versus 46%, p<.001) and schizophrenia (29% versus 18%, p<.003).

Conclusions

Understanding characteristics of frequent users can inform development of appropriate services. Research should address other variables related to frequent admissions, including socioeconomic factors, general medical and psychiatric comorbidities, and treatment compliance.

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Information & Authors

Information

Published In

Go to Psychiatric Services
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Cover: Tommy, by Mitchell Siporin, 1943. Gouache, 9 × 7 inches. Courtesy of the estate of the artist and the Susan Teller Gallery, New York City.
Psychiatric Services
Volume 64 • Number 2 • February 2013
Pages: 192 - 195
PubMed: 23280315

History

Published in print: February 2013
Published online: 15 October 2014

Authors

Affiliations

Nuno Borja-Santos, M.D., M.Sc.
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Graça Cardoso, M.D., Ph.D.
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Except for Dr. Cardoso, the authors are affiliated with the Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Fernando Fonseca EPE, IC 19, 2720-276 Amadora, Portugal (e-mail: [email protected]).
Dr. Cardoso is affiliated with the Mental Health Department, Faculty of Medical Sciences, New University of Lisbon, Portugal.

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