Accuracy of Self-Report and Toxicological Assays to Detect Substance Misuse Disorders in Parasuicide Patients

This study assessed the accuracy of self-reported substance use & toxicological assays in subjects admitted for intentional drug overdose, using substance use disorder as a reference diagnosis. In routine practice, the emergency department staff did not investigate substance use in nearly half of all patients. It was also found that patients’ statements made it possible to detect nearly 80% of subjects with substance use disorder. Implications for practice are discussed. (43 refs)