Validation of the Stroke Aphasic Depression Questionnaire using the brief assessment schedule depression cards in an acute stroke sample

Abstract

To validate the Stroke Aphasic Depression Questionnaire (hospital version: SADQ H10), an observer-rated measure of depression, against the brief assessment schedule depression cards (BASDEC) in acute stroke. This naturalistic audit utilized a cross-sectional design. As part of routine care, 125 patients on an acute in-patient stroke unit were assessed with the BASDEC and SADQ H10. The BASDEC classified 40 patients as depressed and 85 as non-depressed. The SADQ H10 and BASDEC significantly correlated. An ROC (receiver operating curve) analysis showed that the SADQ H10 discriminated between depressed and non-depressed acute stroke patients. The results support the use of the SADQ H10 as a depression screen in acute stroke.