Objective
To describe characteristics of children and adolescents who used the psychiatric emergency service because of disorders caused by substance use. We analyzed frequencies and care outcomes.
Methods
This cross-sectional study was carried out in a psychiatric emergency service. Care was delivered to patients 18 years of age and younger who were substance users.
Results
We performed 4,198 cares delivered at a psychiatric emergency service for children and adolescents. Of these, 1,007 were due to problems related to substance use. The prevalent age was 12 to 17 years. Most participants were white, attended elementary education, were Catholic, and used multiple substances. The majority of participants were hospitalized or discharged.
Conclusion
This study permitted characterization of psychiatric emergency services provided to children and adolescents. Critical aspects were young age, use of multiple substances, and nonadherence to treatment.
Emergency services; psychiatric; Street drugs; Adolescent; Child