A clinical study of child mental health inpatient care

Objectives To explore whether admissions to a child
mental health inpatient unit in a tertiary care paediatric
hospital were justified and estimate whether inpatient
unit provided a beneficial service to patients and their
families.
Method A retrospective analysis of 191 consecutive
admissions to unit over 15 months. Relevant
information was obtained from clinical case notes
recorded and maintained during hospital stay.
Additional data was obtained from standardized
assessment schedules used for validation of diagnoses
and neuropsychological assessment carried out during
admission.
Results Ages ranged from 2-12 years. Most patients
were referred by paediatricians. Medically unexplained
somatic symptoms and disruptive behaviour were the
most prevalent presenting features. Multidisciplinary
approach to care and objectively supported assessment
and intervention strategies were beneficial in over 80%
of patients. Average duration of hospitalisation was 6.4
days. None dropped out of treatment. There was a 12%
readmission rate and an 18.4% unsatisfactory rating for
outcome.

Sri Lanka Journal of Child Health, 2004; 33: 6-8

(Key words: Clinical study, child mental health, inpatient care)

doi: 10.4038/sljch.v33i1.660