Attempted suicide and self-inflicted injuries. Susana López de Valencia Hospital, Popayán, Colombia.

Abstract

Introduction. This is a retrospective descriptive study in which we analyzed the medical records of patients admitted to the Susana López de Valencia Hospital in Popayán with a diagnosis of suicide attempt during 2005. Objective: To determine the risk factors associated with suicide attempt. Methods: We finally worked with 158 cases, analyzing sociodemographic variables, data related to the attempt, evolution, follow-up, and quality of care. Results: We found that the variables associated with the worst prognosis for suicide attempts were persistent suicidal ideation after initial care and previous suicide attempts. These two variables represented a relative risk of complications between 3 and 9 times higher. Conclusions: A form should be created to systematically record the variables that determine an increased risk of suicide, such as suicidal thoughts, premeditation of the attempt, and previous suicide attempts.