The best perinatal depression screening: Is self-administered PHQ2 more feasible than a nurse-administered one?

Perspect Psychiatr Care. 2020 Jan;56(1):81-85. doi: 10.1111/ppc.12383. Epub 2019 Apr 18.

Abstract

Purpose: To assess perinatal depression screening via self-administered PHQ2 (SAP) vs nurse-administered PHQ2 (NAP).

Design and methods: NAP screening was performed for 3 months, followed by SAP. Data were gathered from visits at 24 to 28 weeks gestation.

Findings: One hundred twenty-seven patients were in NAP arm, 100 in SAP arm. SAP had higher rates of screening (odds ratio [OR], 3.25; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.63-6.49), but no difference in positive PHQ2 screens. The SAP rate of therapeutic action for positive screens was lower (OR, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.12-0.50).

Practice implications: SAP provided higher perinatal depression screening rates compared to NAP, but decreased therapeutic action.

Keywords: depression; postpartum period; pregnancy; screening method.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Depression / diagnosis*
  • Depression, Postpartum
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Mass Screening / methods*
  • Multivariate Analysis
  • Nurse's Role
  • Postpartum Period
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / diagnosis*
  • Pregnancy Complications / psychology*
  • Self-Assessment
  • Surveys and Questionnaires*
  • Young Adult