Screening for Perinatal Depression at County WIC Offices

Abstract

Poster Presentation Purpose for the Program To train staff of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, Children (WIC) in the administration of a perinatal depression screening tool appropriate in a culturally and linguistically diverse population. Behavioral Health Care Services helped to designated specific health care providers to be contacted in cases (based on screening tool scores) that required immediate or urgent response. Proposed Change Postpartum depression (PPD) affects 10% to 12% of women worldwide, and its effect on families can be devastating. PPD has been associated with discontinuation of breastfeeding, child abuse and neglect, developmental delays, and exacerbation of mental health illnesses. Perinatal public health nurses (PHNs) have years of expertise in the use of screening tools and the care of women with PPD. WIC clinics are a convenient venue to expand screening and referrals for PPD. Implementation, Outcomes, and Evaluation The county WIC administrator, Behavioral Health Care Services, and local graduate nursing students provided support for the program. A 2‐day curriculum for WIC staff was developed by the lead PHN that included use of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), case scenarios, and practice screening. As of May 2014, more than 6000 women were screened at two WIC sites. Approximately 14% had positive test results, and 37% accepted referrals. Because of the protected nature of behavioral health care data, it is difficult to obtain a measure of client well‐being. The program is expanding to additional WIC sites in the county. Implications for Nursing Practice Screening for PPD and consequences of untreated PPD can be devastating for a family and community. Screening in community settings can lessen the stigma. As staff became confident in their administration and referral skills related to screening, their comfort level increased. Nurses developed this program, which speaks to the value of the nursing profession. This program may inspire similar ventures in other communities.