Geri-screen: A multicenter trial of a novel screening tool for depression and suicide risk among US trauma patients.

Abstract

Background: Depression and suicidal ideation rates among geriatric trauma patients admitted to the hospital are currently unknown. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depressive symptoms, suicidal ideation and prior attempts, and lethal means access among older patients admitted to trauma centers in the United States. We hypothesized that a significant number of these patients may have unrecognized symptoms of depression and/or suicidal ideation not identified prior to hospital discharge.

Methods: These data are from a multicenter survey study of injured older (≥55 years) patients admitted to non-ICU inpatient trauma services at five US trauma centers. Patients were approached to complete a tablet-based survey with two components: (1) validated depression and suicidal ideation screening tool (PHQ-9) and (2) household firearm ownership.

Results: From November 2022 through May 2024, five level 1 trauma centers in five states administered surveys to 408 patients, who were mostly male, White, and older than 70 years. Overall, more than one-third (34.8%) screened positive for depressive symptoms and nearly 40% kept a firearm at home. Twenty percent of those patients experiencing suicidal ideation kept a firearm in the home.

Conclusions: We identified high rates of depressive symptoms among older patients admitted to trauma centers, with one-third of patients having access to firearms in their home. Identifying depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation among patients admitted to trauma centers may allow for mental health intervention and lethal means safety counseling prior to hospital discharge.

Level of evidence: Prognostic and Epidemiological; Level III.