Adverse Childhood Experiences Screening Among Adults in an Inpatient Behavioral Health Unit

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are common amongst people of all ages, races, and socio-economic statuses. The consequence of ACEs impact ones mental and physical health and life span. High ACE scores lead to increased risk of suicide, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. The purpose of this project was to screen adults admitted to an inpatient psychiatric hospital for ACEs. This project sought to determine if there is a relationship between overall ACEs score and impact on health versus length of stay. Ultimately, the aim is to reduce negative health outcome for patients as measured by length of stay. The results indicated that overall ACEs score and the impact on health results did not impact length of stay. However, the results were significant in confirming that higher ACE scores are correlated with more significant impact on health.