Influence of experience and nationality on assessment and outcome of parasuicide

In Sheffield 544 consecutive cases of attempted suicide (parasuicide) were seen at 2 large hospitals over a 12-month period, and allocated in sequence to the junior and senior psychiatric staff, of British and foreign origin. During the follow-up period of 12 months, 31 patients had a further episode of parasuicide and 5 patients committed suicide. The outcome (as measured by repeat parasuicide or suicide) was not significantly affected by the country of origin of the psychiatrist, nor his length of training in psychiatry.