Te Ira Tangata: A Zelen randomised controlled trial of a treatment package including problem solving therapy compared to treatment as usual in Maori who present to hospital after self harm
2011

Te Ira Tangata: A Study on Maori Self-Harm Treatment

Sample size: 155 publication null Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Simon Hatcher, Nicole Coupe, Mason Durie, Hinemoa Elder, Rees Tapsell, Karen Wikiriwhi, Varsha Parag

Primary Institution: The University of Auckland

Hypothesis

A culturally informed treatment is more effective than treatment as usual in reducing the proportion of Maori who score below nine on the Beck Hopelessness Scale at one year.

Conclusion

The study aims to test whether a culturally informed package of care leads to better outcomes for Maori who present to hospital after self-harm compared to standard treatment.

Supporting Evidence

  • Previous reviews indicated that problem solving therapy may be effective for self-harm.
  • Maori present to hospitals for self-harm at a higher rate than non-Maori.
  • The study aims to recruit a representative cohort of Maori patients.

Takeaway

This study is trying to help Maori people who hurt themselves by giving them special care that respects their culture, to see if it helps them feel better.

Methodology

The study uses a Zelen randomised controlled design where participants are randomised before giving consent.

Potential Biases

There is a risk of selection bias due to the Zelen design, as those who consent may not represent the entire population.

Limitations

The analysis of results may underestimate effects if many people refuse consent in the group randomised to problem solving therapy.

Participant Demographics

All adult Māori patients presenting to emergency departments who can give informed consent.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.05

Confidence Interval

null

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1745-6215-12-117

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