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Biomedical subjects

H Waltzer

Publications and source records attributed to H Waltzer.

10 recordsLinked to original sources

Suicide risk in young schizophrenics.

A review of national statistics of suicide in the general population and in those diagnosed as schizophrenic indicates that in the younger age groups, schizophrenics are at a greater risk of committing suicide than those suffering from an affective disorder or neurotic depression. Case examples are given of young schizophrenics who committed suicide. Psychodynamic considerations are discussed, as are implications for the clinician in diagnosing and determining the risk for suicide in young schizophrenics.

Adolescent↗

The biopsychosocial model for brief inpatient treatment of the schizophrenic syndrome.

A holistic approach, the biopsychosocial model, is the most rational and effective way for both understanding the causation and the treatment of an illness. This should be the model for the brief inpatient treatment of the schizophrenic syndrome. In establishing a focus of treatment, particularly in brief inpatient treatment, it is necessary to determine the role and magnitude of each of the three, the biological, the psychological and social, factors in precipitating a dysequilibrium or breakdown. Only through careful history taking can one ascertain the degree of significance of the three factors, to make a prognosis as to recovery, and to establish a realistic therapeutic plan. Discharge planning must begin almost the very same day the patient enters the unit. Observation of the patient on the unit to structure, to other patients and staff, and reactions of staff to the patient usually mirrors the adaptation in the outer world, and is thus a valuable guide to treatment approach. The team leader, the psychiatrist, whose understanding of the biological, genetic and constitutional element, should formulate the treatment plan in conjunction with the input and assessments offered by members of other disciplines.

Defense Mechanisms↗

Psychological and legal aspects of artificial insemination (A.I.D.): an overview.

The psychological and psychodynamic determinants and end-products of A.I.D., both of a positive and negative nature, are reviewed. Studies do not support the contention that a decision to participate in artificial insemination, in itself, is indicative of an emotional disturbance. There is no justification for the automatic requirement of psychological or psychiatric examinations of couples requesting this procedure. Some legal issues are reviewed.

Adaptation, Psychological↗

Successful suicides and serious attempts in a general hospital over 15-year period.

The occurrence of suicide in the general hospital was studied in terms of incidence, age groups, and diagnostic category. The authors describe both physical and psychiatric syndromes that seem to be connected with higher vulnerability for self-destructive acts. Suicidal behavior was not found to be a random or impulsive act, but rather the final expression in action of already communicated clues in many instances. The bimodal distribution of two separate age and diagnostic groupings is described and can serve as a basis for a heightened awareness of the suicidal potential in these patients.

Adult↗

Malpractice liability in a patient's suicide.

The increased number of malpractice suits has had an impact on the practice of medicine. Fourteen of the most common reasons for suits against psychiatrists are listed. Prominent among them is the failure to care for an obvious suicide risk. The suicidal potential of all patients must be explored. Affirmative answers to three or more of twelve questions point to a high suicide risk, and psychiatric hospitalization should be seriously considered. Specific suicide precautions should be indicated. The legal doctrine of "res ipsa loquitur" in relation to malpractice suits is discussed. It is concluded that there are not fixed legal standards of care or supervision of suicidal patients.

Hospital Units↗

Brief or crisis-oriented therapy in a city hospital setting.

The philosophy of brief therapy in a city hospital setting is outlined. Therapists frequently resist a brief and active approach and offer rationalizations against it. Most patients, however, seek only symptom alleviation or problem solving, and not insight psychotherapy. Specific treatment goals and foci must be established early when the treatment contract is formulated. Transference and countertransference play a significant role.

Countertransference↗