P02.314 The wessex recent inpatient suicide study: 1. Case-control study of 234 recently discharged psychiatric inpatient suicides

Abstract

Background: psychiatric patients have a higher suicide risk following hospital discharge. Aims: to identify social, clinical and health-care delivery factors in recently discharged patients. Method: retrospective case—control study of 234 patients who died within 1 year of hospital discharge, matched for age, gender, diagnosis and admission period with 431 controls. Odds ratios for identified risk factors were calculated using conditional multiple logistic regression. Results: independent increased-risk factors were: not being White; living alone; history of deliberate self-harm (DSH); suicidal ideation precipitating admission; hopelessness; admission under different consultant; onset of relationship difficulties; loss of job; in-patient DSH; unplanned discharge; significant care professional leaving/on leave. Reduced-risk factors were: shared accommodation; delusions at admission; misuse of non-prescribed substances; and continuity of contact. Conclusions: continuity of contact may reduce suicide risk. Discontinuity of care from a significant professional is associated with increased risk of suicide.