Citation

Flesher N, Zayat MN, Ablah E, Okut H, Lightwine K, Haan JM. Am. Surg. 2023; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2023, Southeastern Surgical Congress)

DOI

10.1177/00031348231173968

PMID

37164366

Abstract

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to describe patients admitted for attempted or completed suicide during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: A 1-year retrospective review was performed of adult patients admitted for attempted or completed suicide.

RESULTS: Of the 30 patients included, most injuries involved firearms (37%) and cutting/piercing (30%). Sixty-three percent of patients presented with an Injury Severity Score ≥16, and 37% of injuries involved the head. Upon admission, an alcohol test was completed for 83% of patients, 56% of whom tested positive. Thirty percent of patients died from their injuries, with all but one involving a firearm. Most of those who survived to discharge (62%) were discharged to an inpatient behavioral health facility.

DISCUSSION: The current study indicated a large proportion of suicides during the COVID-19 pandemic involved firearms and alcohol use. These findings point to the need for interventions aimed at preventing suicide and substance abuse during pandemic situations.

Language: en

Keywords

attempted suicide; trauma; COVID-19; pandemic; completed suicide; self-inflicted injury