Predictors of the length of stay in a psychiatric emergency care centre

Objective: This paper aims to ascertain predictors of the length of stay in a Psychiatric Emergency Care Centre (PECC). Methods: Demographic and clinical characteristics were recorded retrospectively via file audit in 477 patients who were admitted to a PECC within a six-month period. Associations between these variables and length of stay were analysed using logistic regression. Results: Length of stay in the PECC was predicted by medical complications arising in the PECC, absconding behaviour, diagnosis of depression and being brought in by family members. Aggression within the PECC and previous contact with mental health services predicted a shorter stay. Conclusions: Length of stay in the PECC is predicted by a number of variables that are different from those that predict length of stay in an acute psychiatric unit. A comprehensive assessment of these variables prior to admission may decrease the length of stay in the PECC and improve efficiency of acute psychiatric services