Correlates of subjective caregiver strain in caregivers of youth evaluated in a pediatric psychiatric emergency room

Abstract Background: Although caregiver burden is relevant to the outcome for psychiatrically ill youth, most studies have focused on caregiver burden in the community or research settings. Therefore, we aimed at evaluating the subjective caregiver strain (SCS) at the time of presentation of youth to a pediatric psychiatric emergency room (PPER), assessing potential correlates to provide leads for improvements in formal support systems. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, the internalized, externalized, and total SCS were assessed in caregivers of youth <18 years of age consecutively evaluated at a PPER during a 1 year period using the Caregiver Strain Questionnaire. Sociodemographic and a broad range of clinical data were collected during the PPER visit using a 12-page semistructured institutional evaluation form. The Appropriateness of Pediatric Psychiatric Emergency Room Contact scale, incorporating acuity, severity and harm potential, was used to rate appropriateness of the visit. Results: In...