Repetition of acute poisoning in Oslo: 1-year prospective study.
BACKGROUND
The repetition of acute poisoning occurs frequently. The intention may change between episodes and many poisonings are treated outside the hospital setting. Few studies have taken this into account.


OBJECTIVE
To quantify the repetition frequency regardless of the level of health care or the intention behind the poisoning, and to identify possible risk factors for repetition.


METHODS
A prospective multicentre study of all acute poisonings in Oslo treated in hospital, at an out-patient clinic or by the ambulance service. Repetition was estimated using Kaplan-Meier calculations, and predictive factors were identified using Cox regression analysis.


RESULTS
The estimated 1-year repetition rate was 30% (95% CI 24-35). Independent predictors of repetition were middle age (30-49 years), poisoning with opiates or sedatives, unemployment or living on social welfare, a previous suicide attempt, and a history of psychiatric treatment. Intention was not a significant predictor.


CONCLUSIONS
Repetition of acute poisoning is high, irrespective of the level of healthcare and the intention behind the poisoning.
Heyerdahl
Fridtjof
F
Department of Acute Medicine, Ullevaal University Hospital, Oslo, Norway. fridtjof.heyerdahl@medisin.uio.no
Bjornaas
Mari Asphjell
MA
Dahl
Rune
R
Hovda
Knut Erik
KE
Nore
Anne Kathrine
AK
Ekeberg
Oivind
O
Jacobsen
Dag
D
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D062787:Drug Overdose / Q000453:epidemiology; D004812:Epidemiologic Methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009664:Norway / Q000453:epidemiology; D012008:Recurrence; D016728:Self-Injurious Behavior / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology*; D013406:Suicide, Attempted / Q000523:psychology*; D055815:Young Adult