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Can nurses help identify patients with depression following stroke? A pilot study using two methods of detection
C Elizabeth Lightbody1, Robert Baldwin, Martin Connolly
1Department of Nursing, Clinical Practice Research Unit, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK. celightbody@uclan.ac.uk
Journal of Advanced Nursing
|February 8, 2007
Summary
Nurses can accurately detect depression in stroke patients using the Geriatric Mental State examination and the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale. The Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale is quicker and may be more clinically useful for nurses.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
- Gerontology
Background:
- Post-stroke depression impacts recovery and rehabilitation.
- Identifying depression in stroke survivors with cognitive/communication issues is challenging.
- Early detection and intervention are crucial for managing post-stroke depression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the accuracy of the Geriatric Mental State examination (GMS) and Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) in detecting depression among recent stroke patients.
- To evaluate the efficacy of these tools when administered by nurses.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional pilot study compared nurse-administered GMS and MADRS against a psychiatrist's clinical diagnosis.
- Data were collected from 28 hospitalized patients within two weeks post-stroke.
Main Results:
- The psychiatrist diagnosed depression in 25% of patients.
- The GMS showed 71% sensitivity and 68% overall efficiency.
- The MADRS demonstrated 100% sensitivity and 75% overall efficiency.
Conclusions:
- Both GMS and MADRS are effective in detecting depression in stroke patients.
- The MADRS is quicker to administer and may be more practical for clinical nursing use.
