Factors Associated With Absconding During Inpatient Care From a Psychiatric Center: A Retrospective Observational...

Background: Absconding, defined as a patient leaving a hospital or medical facility without permission or.authorization, is a significant concern in psychiatric care, with rates varying across studies. Previous research has identified several factors-such as age, sex, diagnosis, and the treatment environment-that may contribute to the risk of absconding. This study aimed to identify the risk factors associated with absconding incidents and compare them with a matched control group.

Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted at a psychiatric center in Jaipur, India, from January .2020 to December 2023. The study included 573 patients who .absconded, matched with 573 controls. Data were collected through chart reviews, focusing on .sociodemographic characteristics, clinical profiles, and mental status examination findings.

Results: The absconding rate was 11.54% (573 of 4,962 admissions). Most absconding patients were young males, with a mean stay of 4.07 days before absconding. Significant differences were found in affect (irritable or euphoric), perceptual abnormalities, and judgment. Absconding incidents were most frequent between 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM, and 10% of patients had a history of previous absconding. The duration of hospitalization was significantly shorter for absconders compared to controls.

Conclusion: The study found that absconding patients were primarily young males with irritable or euphoric affect, impaired judgment, and shorter hospital stays. These findings highlight the importance of early risk identification, increased supervision during high-risk periods, and tailored interventions addressing clinical and organizational factors associated with absconding.

Prim Care Companion CNS Disord 2025;27(3):24m03893.

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