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Implementation Of A Comprehensive Clinical Toolkit For Postpartum Depression Screening: Breaking Barriers In Women's Health Care, Liza C. Rivera Dnp, Msn, Aprn, Whnp-Bc

Journal of Nursing & Interprofessional Leadership in Quality & Safety

A quality improvement initiative to increase screening of postpartum women to detect depression and appropriately refer women screening positive for follow-up care was implemented in an obstetrics and gynecology practice. Physicians in the practice (n = 13) completed an educational module on use and benefits of a toolkit and showed a significant post test increase. Review of patient medical charts found a significant increase in screening rate in an 8-week intervention cycle. Through means of establishing a protocol for appropriate referral for follow-up, the goal of referring 50% of women who screened positive was exceeded.