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Prediction of aggression and restraint in child inpatient units
Jandi H Crocker1, Robyn Stargatt, Christine Denton
1School of Psychological Science, Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Insights
Predictors of aggression and restraint in child psychiatric units were identified. Disruptive behavior disorders and high-risk assessments are linked to increased aggression and the need for physical restraint in pediatric inpatients.
Area of Science:
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Behavioral Science
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Aggression and restraint are significant challenges in child psychiatric inpatient settings.
- Understanding predictors is crucial for managing patient safety and treatment efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify factors predicting aggressive behavior and the need for restraint in children admitted to a psychiatric inpatient unit.
- To explore the relationship between specific diagnoses and aggressive incidents.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of incident report forms over a 12-month period.
- Analysis of data from 41 children aged 5-12 years with various psychiatric diagnoses.
- Inclusion of diagnoses such as conduct disorder, ADHD, and anxiety disorders.
Main Results:
- A total of 70 children were admitted, with 41 engaging in 235 violent incidents.
- High-risk assessment and disruptive behavior disorder predicted aggressive behavior and restraint.
- Disruptive behavior disorder was also associated with more severe aggression episodes.
Conclusions:
- Patient factors predicting aggression and restraint needs are identifiable in child inpatient units.
- Early identification of disruptive behavior disorders can inform risk management strategies.
- Targeted interventions may reduce aggressive incidents and restraint use.
Objective:
The aim of the present exploratory study was to determine the predictors of aggression and restraint in children admitted to a child psychiatric inpatient unit in Melbourne, Australia.
Method:
A retrospective review of incident report forms over a 12 month period at the State Wide Child Inpatient Unit (SWCIU) was conducted. These report forms were based upon 41 children aged 5-12 years, who had various psychiatric diagnoses including conduct disorder, attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder and anxiety disorders.
Results:
A total of 70 children were admitted to the SWCIU during the audit period. Forty-one children aged 5-12 engaged in 235 violent incidents. A high-risk assessment and disruptive behaviour disorder were associated with aggressive behaviour and restraint. Disruptive behaviour disorder also predicted more serious episodes of aggression.
Conclusions:
There are readily identifiable patient factors that predict aggression and the need for restraint in child inpatient units.
Related Concept Videos
01:47Aggression
01:28Conduct Disorder