Youth suicide-related visits in an emergency department serving rural counties: Implications for means restriction

Author(s): Grossman, J., Kruesi, J. P., Fendrich, M., Franke, C., Ignatowicz, N.

Journal/Book: Arch Suicide Res. 1998; 4: Spuiboulevard 50, PO Box 17, 3300 AA Dordrecht, Netherlands. Kluwer Academic Publ. 75-87.

Abstract: A large proportion of suicide attempts result in injuries requiring medical attention, but little is known about youth presenting to rural emergency departments (EDs) for suicide-related behavior. We conducted a chart review of youth receiving mental health (MH) evaluations during 1994 in an ED serving rural counties. Forty percent of the these visits were for suicide-related events. These youth were more likely to be older, female and white than youth receiving MH evaluations for reasons not related to suicide. No differences were found on recent substance use, non-suicidal aggression, or MH service contact when comparing suicidal to non-suicidal youth. Youth receiving MH evaluations were homogenous with respect to suicide risk factors. Chart reviews provided no evidence that means restriction education was provided. We discuss broader implications of these findings for the role of means restriction in EDs.

Note: Article Wislar JS, Univ Illinois, Inst Juvenile Res MC747, Dept Psychiat, 907S Wolcott Ave, Chicago,IL 60612 USA

Keyword(s): youth; suicide; rural; means restriction; emergency department; GUN OWNERSHIP; SURVEILLANCE; ADOLESCENTS; FIREARMS; HOME

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