The Journal for Nurse Practitioners
Volume 2, Issue 4 , Pages 247-253, April 2006

Postpartum Depression: Detection and Treatment in the Primary Care Setting

  • Christina Munoz, RN, BSN

      Affiliations

    • All authors work at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, IL.
    • Christina Munoz, RN, BSN, is a clinical nurse II and FNP candidate.
    • ,
  • Janyce Agruss, DNSc, APN/CNP

      Affiliations

    • All authors work at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, IL.
    • Janyce Agruss, DNSc, APN/CNP, is an assistant professor and coordinator for the family nurse practitioner program.
    • ,
  • Amy Haeger, MSN, FNP

      Affiliations

    • All authors work at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, IL.
    • Amy Haeger, MSN, FNP, is a women's health consultant.
    • ,
  • Lynn Sivertsen, MSN, RN, APRN

      Affiliations

    • All authors work at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, IL.
    • Lynn Sivertsen, MSN, RN, APRN, is an assistant professor.

ABSTRACT 

Postpartum depression (PPD) is an illness that is often overlooked. Its consequences suggest that nurse practitioners should be more proactive in looking for this problem. This article provides the advanced practice nurse with the necessary tools to assess risk, screen, recognize symptoms, and diagnose PPD based on current literature. Treatments are highlighted, and resources for the practitioner are provided. A case study is presented to illustrate current treatment guidelines in a primary care setting.

Keywords:  baby blues , depression , postpartum , postpartum blues , postpartum depression

 

PII: S1555-4155(06)00156-5

doi:10.1016/j.nurpra.2006.02.008

The Journal for Nurse Practitioners
Volume 2, Issue 4 , Pages 247-253, April 2006

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