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Involuntary medication in psychiatric inpatient treatment
R Kaltiala-Heino1, M Välimäki, J Korkeila
1Psychiatric Treatment and Research Unit for Adolescent Intensive Care, Tampere University Hospital, 33380 Pitkaniemi, Finland.
Summary
Involuntary medication occurred in 8.2% of psychiatric admissions, often for schizophrenia patients. Treatment culture, not just patient illness, influences its use.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Involuntary medication is a contentious practice in psychiatric inpatient settings.
- Understanding its prevalence and associated factors is crucial for improving patient care and treatment protocols.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence of involuntary medication in psychiatric inpatients.
- To identify patient-related factors associated with involuntary medication.
- To explore the influence of institutional treatment culture on medication practices.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 1543 admissions across three psychiatric centers.
- Analysis of patient demographics, diagnoses, legal status, and medication administration records.
Main Results:
- 8.2% of admissions involved involuntary medication.
- Schizophrenia diagnosis, involuntary legal status, and prior commitments were associated with higher rates.
- One center demonstrated significantly lower involuntary medication rates despite a higher proportion of schizophrenia patients.
Conclusions:
- Involuntary medication is primarily used for severely ill patients, but treatment culture significantly impacts its application.
- Further research into treatment culture is essential for a comprehensive understanding of involuntary medication practices in psychiatry.