Pediatric health care providers' self-reported practices in recognizing and treating maternal depression

Pediatr Nurs. 2007 Mar-Apr;33(2):165-72, 127.

Abstract

Screening for maternal depression with appropriate intervention has been emphasized through pediatric guidelines, but engaging providers to implement such procedures remains challenging. This study examined self-reported practice in recognizing and treating maternal depression in 98 pediatric health care providers. Over 85% agreed that recognizing maternal depression was their responsibility, yet only half reported confidence in their ability to do so. Fewer than 10% reported asking mothers about depression or using a screening tool. Clear differences in practice, treatment, and perceived barriers by confidence level were found. Implications for practice, research, and training are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Attitude of Health Personnel*
  • Clinical Competence / standards
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Depression, Postpartum* / diagnosis
  • Depression, Postpartum* / therapy
  • Female
  • Health Care Surveys
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Health Services Accessibility / organization & administration
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mass Screening
  • Nurse Practitioners / organization & administration
  • Nurse Practitioners / psychology
  • Nurse's Role
  • Nursing Assessment
  • Nursing Evaluation Research
  • Pediatric Nursing / organization & administration*
  • Pediatrics / organization & administration*
  • Physician's Role
  • Practice Patterns, Physicians' / organization & administration
  • Self Efficacy
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Vereinigte Staaten