Early Leaves from Inpatient Care Among Individuals with Traumatic Life Events in Ontario, Canada

Abstract

Psychological trauma is a prevalent mental health concern, with most individuals experiencing at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. Early leaves from inpatient settings are a pertinent challenge among persons who have experienced trauma and may reflect unmet care needs. This study examined patterns of early leaves among persons with trauma from inpatient care in Ontario, Canada. All records for individuals who have experienced trauma with an index admission of over 72 h between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2019 were included (N = 11,043). Logistic regression using generalized equation estimation was used to assess the association between demographic and clinical characteristics, substance use, social relationships, staff dynamics, and control interventions with the outcome of early leaves. In the final model, alcohol (OR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.27–2.64), other substances (OR: 2.15, 95% CI: 1.34–3.46), and poly substance use (OR: 2.46, 95% CI: 1.82–3.31) all increased the odds of early leaves after considering possible facility effects, and after adjusting for other demographic and clinical factors. Being older, employed, and having mood disorders reduced odds of early leaves. Early leaves are important within treatment planning, particularly in relation to addressing complex traumas. While challenges related to substance use may be driving some of the early leaves, there may also be challenges to providing complex care within acute mental health settings. Further exploration of policies and practices to prevent early leaves are necessary, including the potential need for longer-term specialized treatment programs.