Factors of importance to involuntary admission.

BACKGROUND

Most countries allow for the use of involuntary admission of patients. While some countries have stable or declining rates of involuntary admission, this type of coercion is now on the increase in several European countries.

AIMS

To increase understanding of the antecedents of involuntary admission.

METHODS

The importance of various predictors of involuntary admission were analysed in univariate analyses and in a logistic regression model, involving approximately 2000 admissions to a Norwegian hospital.

RESULTS

Involuntary admission was positively associated with the diagnostic category of psychosis and negatively associated with the category of anxiety. Emergency referrals were also more likely to be coerced.

CONCLUSIONS

Diagnostic category seems to be a central factor with respect to involuntary admission. Patients that were admitted in an emergency were also more likely to be coerced.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Certain groups of patients are more likely to be admitted involuntarily. Increasing attention to these groups could possibly also contribute to the reduction of coercion.