DOI

10.21007/con.dnp.2025.0121

Faculty Advisor

Laura Reed, DNP, FNP-C

Clinical Site

University Clinical Health/UT Family Medicine Clinic- 1301 Primacy Parkway, Memphis 38119

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

Spring 5-1-2025

Disciplines

Health and Medical Administration | Investigative Techniques | Medicine and Health Sciences | Mental Disorders | Nursing | Nursing Administration | Psychological Phenomena and Processes | Quality Improvement

Abstract

Purpose/Background

Postpartum Depression (PPD) is a concerning mental health condition characterized by feelings of extreme sadness, exhaustion, and challenges with maternal-infant bonding. PPD effects mothers’ ability to adequately care for themselves and their newborns. Current research suggests that one in seven women experience symptoms of PPD as late as 12 months postpartum. Despite screening guidelines set forth by the American Academy of Pediatrics, 50% of mothers with PPD will not receive a diagnosis.

This study aims to evaluate the rate of PPD detection at well-child visits occurring within the first 12 months postpartum by administering the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) to eligible postpartum mothers. The goal of this study is to highlight the effectiveness of administering a screening tool to detect PPD thereby increasing access to timely and appropriate care for mother and baby and improving health outcomes for this patient population.

Methods

In this retrospective chart review, data was extrapolated from the clinic from January 1, 2024, through June 30, 2024, and 30 charts were analyzed where the chief complaint or HPI contained the keywords. Of these 30 charts, data was collected on whether EDPS surveys were administered.

Results

Data analysis of the 30 charts reveals the most frequent reason for office visit was 12 month well child checkup. Of these 30 charts, 50% received an EDPS survey. 100% of the 1 month well child checkups received an EDPS, while 89% of the 12 month well child checkups did not receive an EDPS survey. 3

Implications for Nursing Practice

The chart review results highlight that the clinic did a fair job administering the surveys during the well-child visits, but there is still room for significant improvement in the 12-month age group. Primary care providers can have a substantial impact on helping to screen this vulnerable population.

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