Date of this Version

7-20-2022

Document Type

DNP Project

Abstract

The purpose of this DNP project was to explore clinician perspectives on the utilization of evidence-based depression screening measures during client intake at a psychiatric clinic. A cross-sectional, 15-item survey was developed and administered with a convenience sample of clinicians at a psychiatric clinic. The survey item development was guided by the Prochaska and DiClemente (1983) Transtheoretical Model and previous research. Eight participants of the eligible 15 staff members completed the paper-based survey. Participants included advanced practice registered nurses, a licensed clinical social worker, and a licensed mental health counselor. Most (seven clinicians, 87.5%) participants reported depression was a “very significant” problem for new adult clients. Most (six clinicians, 75%) participants indicated they had considered utilizing an evidence-based depression screening measure as part of their intake process. All eight participants indicated they would feel comfortable administering and scoring the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) after receiving training. Several resources were identified as needed by participants for successful administration, including training and screening measure availability in multiple languages. Further investigation at the clinic will be needed to develop clinician training and determine the optimal evidence-based depression screening measure to use during the intake process of an adult client.

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