Abstract
Sixty-four cases of discharge against medical advice (DAMA) from 3 paediatric units in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital within a period of 18 months were analysed. The incidence was highest among the very young, even when they were still very ill. Financial problems accounted for 65.6% of the cases. Other reasons included difficulties related to the siblings (9.4%), the wish to try traditional methods (7.8%), family opposition (1.6%) and distance from the hospital (4.1%). It is recommended that greater attention be given to preventive health care, and placing the cost of hospital care within the reach of the poor. Improved communication is also recommended as a way of helping parents seek alternatives to DAMA.
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