Feasibility of the Psychiatric Research Interview for Substance and Mental Disorders (PRISM) in an acute psychiatric ward

Background : The highly prevalent comorbidity of substance use disorders and psychiatric disorders represents challenges concerning diagnosis and treatment in acute psychiatric wards. Aims : To study the feasibility of the first Norwegian version of the Psychiatric Research Interview for Substance and Mental Disorders (PRISM) in an acute psychiatric ward. Methods : 61 consecutively admitted substance abusing patients, presenting with mood symptoms, psychotic symptoms, or both, were interviewed. Assessments included variables concerning the way the interviews were carried out. Results : 51% of eligible patients were interviewed. The main reason for non-inclusion was short stay on the ward. Median interview time was 155 minutes and median number of interview sessions was three. Conclusion : It was possible to use the PRISM in a busy acute psychiatric ward. Patients mainly had positive reactions to this extensive interview.