Screening for Postpartum Depression in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) care
• Maternal mental health
• Screening protocols

Background:

• Postpartum depression (PPD) affects 13% of US postpartum women, with higher prevalence in NICU settings.
• Routine PPD screening is recommended but often absent in NICUs, creating a care gap.
• A level IV NICU identified a need for a structured PPD screening program.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and implement a PPD screening program within a NICU.
• To increase the identification of maternal PPD symptoms in this vulnerable population.
• To create a referral algorithm and resource packet for mothers with positive screenings.

Main Methods:

• Mothers of NICU infants were screened using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS).
• Bedside nurses administered the EPDS and utilized a referral algorithm for positive results (EPDS score ≥ 10).
• A referral resource packet was provided to mothers requiring follow-up.

Main Results:

• The screening program achieved 66% compliance with a 26% positive PPD rate.
• Nurses adhered to the referral algorithm 100% of the time.
• 93% of mothers with positive EPDS screenings sought mental health support.

Conclusions:

• Routine maternal PPD screening is essential in all NICU settings.
• NICU screening programs improve identification and linkage to care for postpartum depression.
• Maternal mental health is a shared responsibility beyond obstetric and primary care providers.