Children's discharge against medical advice: Is it a problem?

ABSTRACT

To highlight the magnitude of and identify the factors contributing to children's discharge against medical advice. A prospective, standardized questionnaire interview, covering a 2-year period from 1 January 1990 to 31 December 1991. King Fahad Hospital, Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia Parents of children who were discharged against medical advice. Of 2783 paediatric admissions, 49 [1.8%] were discharged against medical advice. Unfortunately, among these were children with life-threatening conditions. The presence of other siblings at home, false parental judgement of improvement and level of education were found to have significant bearing. Although the study showed a low prevalence, there is still a need for health care providers to be aware of the problem. Further prospective multicentre studies to identify the magnitude, pattern, and risk factors are warranted. Legislation with a clear policy should be formulated by the authorities to protect children who are at risk