Unexpected deaths within psychiatric setting: A scoping review.

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Forensic Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Unexpected deaths pose a significant concern within inpatient psychiatric facilities.
• Identifying contributing factors is crucial for improving patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review evaluating risk factors and preventive strategies for unexpected deaths in inpatient psychiatric settings.
• To synthesize current literature on the causes and mitigation of mortality in psychiatric care.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive scoping review guided by PRISMA extension and PRISMA 2020 statement.
• Searched six databases (inception to December 2023) using keywords related to death, mortality, autopsy, mental health, psychiatry, and inpatient settings.
• Included English-language studies on causes, risk factors, and preventive strategies for unexpected deaths in psychiatric inpatients.

Main Results:

• Twenty-seven articles were reviewed, identifying contributing factors and preventive strategies.
• Primary causes identified include medical conditions, restraints, asphyxia, catatonia, and agitation.
• Preventive strategies encompass medical assessment, cautious restraint use, risk assessment, prompt treatment, and medication regimen simplification.

Conclusions:

• The current literature on unexpected deaths in psychiatric settings requires more high-quality research.
• Developing an evidence-based understanding is vital for enhancing patient safety and potentially saving lives.