PROFILE OF PATIENTS TREATED FOR ATTEMPTED SUICIDE IN TOXICOLOGY ASSISTANCE CENTER

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to characterize the patients treated for attempted suicide at the Center for Toxicological Assistance a hospital in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil. Method: Retrospective study of 409 Sheets Notification and Call of patients attended in a Toxicological Assistance Center in 2010. The analysis was done by comparing proportions, following the significance level of 5%. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee. Results: Revealed the prevalence of suicide attempt among females (58.2%) and young adults (62.8%), coming from urban areas (87.8%), students (16.1%) compared to the occupation. Suicide attempts occurred in the individual's own residence (89.5%), autointoxication by using the medications (51.8%), followed by agricultural pesticides (31.2 %). We identified seven cases (1.7 %) in which patients had mental disorder. Treatment of patients treated for attempted suicide was based mostly on clinical care (98.8%), with no psychological or psychiatric support during hospitalization or referral to a psychiatric institution after clinical improvement of intoxication. It was identified that there was a strong relationship between the degree of poisoning of patients and gender (p< 0.001). Conclusion: There is the need to perform a more comprehensive assistance to individuals who attempt suicide, conducting promotion and prevention, since this injury can and should be avoided.