SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC AND CLINICAL PROFILE OF PATIENTS TREATED AT THE PSYCHIATRIC UNIT OF A GENERAL HOSPITAL

Descriptive and cross-sectional research undertaken at a Psychiatric Unit of a general hospital in Guarapuava, Paraná, to characterize the sociodemographic and clinical profile of patients with mental disorders being treated at a psychiatric ward of a general hospital. The research participants were 240 patients hospitalized in the first semester of 2011. The data were analyzed using frequencies and percentages and displayed in tables. The results indicate a profile of white, single people of productive age, with low education levels and at least one child. The prevalent period for the development of the mental disorders was more than 20 years earlier, starting in adolescence. The diagnosis of mental and behavioral disorders due to psychoactive substance use stood out. In conclusion, knowing the patients’ sociodemographic and clinical profile permits the development of health actions and the strengthening of multiprofessional and intersectoral relationships.