Buicko et al identified factors associated with readmission of a pediatric patient who was initially admitted after an assault. A patient with one or more risk factors may benefit from more aggressive management before and after discharge. The authors are from the University of Miami in Florida.
Patient selection: age < 18 years, following assault
Outcome: 30-day nonelective readmission
Predictors of non-elective readmission:
(1) initial length of stay >= 4 days
(2) psychosis
(3) weight loss
Reasons for readmission:
(1) mental health issue (bipolar disorder, psychosis, major depression)
