Comparison of the clinical use of individual coercive measures during hospitalization across the EUNOMIA study sites

Results In the group of 2,587 involuntarily admitted patients (average age: 38.2 y) coercive measures were used in 32.2% of them (in 55% of men and 45% of women). The frequency of the use of coercive measures in individual centers varied substantially between 9.1% in Slovakia and 59.2% in Poland. In the majority of patients more than one coercive measure was applied. In 9 centers the most frequent measure used was forced medication (mainly typical antipsychotics and benzodiazepines) and in 4 centers physical restraint. Seclusion was available in 6 countries and not very frequently used. The main reason for application of coercive measures was aggression against others. Coercive measures were usually ordered by a psychiatrist. In the majority of countries only members of medical staff were present at the time of their application; but in some countries relatives, police and others were also involved. In all countries patients were informed about reasons, duration and form of the measure.