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Comparison of the assessment by doctors and nurses of deliberate self-harm

Bro Morgannwg NHS Trust, Llwyneryr Unit, 151, Clasemont Road, Morriston, Swansea SA6 6AH, UK

Declaration of interest.

None.

AIMS AND METHOD

To compare the assessment by community psychiatric nurses and junior psychiatric doctors of individuals following deliberate self-harm (DSH) and, in particular, to elicit differences in referral practices and perceptions of mental illness. The health professionals involved completed questionnaires after carrying out DSH assessment.

RESULTS

There was a significant difference in referral patterns between doctors and nurses after DSH assessment. Doctors were significantly more likely to refer individuals for psychiatric follow-up which involved direct contact with other doctors (51 of 72 (71%) compared with 60 of 175 (34%)). Doctors were also significantly more likely than nurses to perceive individuals as having a mental illness (57 of 72 (79%) compared with 86 of 175 (49%)).

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Further research is warranted to establish the precise reasons for these differences, and to determine whether the widespread introduction of nurse-led services is an effective and efficient use of resources.

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