Abstract summary 

This study aimed to describe the socio-demographic and clinical factors associated with readmission in an adolescent population discharged from two inpatient psychosocial rehabilitation (PSR) units in Cape Town, South Africa.Data were obtained from 97 consecutive patients discharged from two adolescent psychiatric PSR units over a period of one year. Patients were followed up for readmission to hospitals offering specialised psychiatric care in the Western Cape Province over a period of 18 months.35 patients (36%) were readmitted during the study period. Multivariable analysis showed that previous admission increased readmission rate (Incidence Rate Ratio (IRR): 8.01, p < 0.001). Adolescents who were still schooling (IRR: 0.29, p < 0.001) or had a higher level of education (IRR: 0.45, p = 0.001) were less likely to be readmitted. No association was seen with type of diagnosis and readmission, although 51 adolescents (53%) were diagnosed on the schizophrenia spectrum of disorders.Study findings highlight the need for increased collaboration between the Departments of Health and Education. Furthermore, the study illustrates the need for specific post-discharge community follow-up for adolescents. Prospective research in this particular population group is needed to contribute to the literature on factors associated with readmission in South African adolescent patients.

Authors & Co-authors:  Pieterse Deirdre D Temmingh Henk H Vogel Wendy W

Study Outcome 

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