Postpartum Depression: Detection and Treatment in the Primary Care Setting

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

1 All authors work at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, IL.

2 Christina Munoz, RN, BSN, is a clinical nurse II and FNP candidate.

3 Janyce Agruss, DNSc, APN/CNP, is an assistant professor and coordinator for the family nurse practitioner program.

4 Amy Haeger, MSN, FNP, is a women's health consultant.

5 Lynn Sivertsen, MSN, RN, APRN, is an assistant professor.

PII: S1555-4155(06)00156-5

doi:10.1016/j.nurpra.2006.02.008

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