Postpartum Depression Assessment

[nurse79]

Hi everyone!! Just curious as to if/what your hospitals are using to assess the possiblity of postpartum depression?? Does anyone out there utilize a form with actual questions the mom fills out, or is it just verbally asking the client?

Thanks

[bagladyrn, RN]

I've never seen an actual form for this. Usually though there is information that makes me aware that a certain patient is at a higher risk and that one will get a more in depth teaching about the triggers and risks for PP depression. Things like hx of depression or mental illness, hx of previous pregnancy loss, difficult pregnancy or delivery, problems with the neonate, bad home situation. I review it with all patients, but let these patients know what their risk factors are. I try to include a spouse or close family member in this teaching as well when appropriate since they may recognize the condition when the pt. can't.