Evaluating the Online Mood Assessment Post Stroke (O-MAPS) training: a phase II randomized-controlled trial

Anxiety and depressive disorders as well as suicidal ideas are common post stroke and early identification via routine screening is imperative for stroke survivors to access formal assessment and treatment. Currently there is a dearth of training programs available and no online mood screening training programs have been evaluated to date.

The current study aims to evaluate the Online Mood Assessment Post Stroke Training Program (OMAPS) developed in partnership with the Stroke Foundation in Australia via a phase II wait listed Randomized Control Trial.

Recruitment occurred online via webinars and social media pages for stroke clinicians and enrolled participants were randomized, using REDCAP randomization software, into the immediate intervention group or wait list control (where participants waited for one week to complete the training). Participants completed a Mood Screening Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (MSEQ) and a mood screening knowledge quiz, pre and post training. Participants were followed up one month following via e-mail to determine whether they implemented the training.

The results indicated that participants screening knowledge quiz scores improved (M = 1.01, t (59) = 6.81, p=<0.0001, d = 1.05) and self-reported self-efficacy increased for both groups after completing the training (t = 8.294, p < 0.001). Many participants reported a change of practice following completing the training and others reported remaining barriers to implementation.

The results of this study are promising and indicate the preliminary efficacy of the OMAPS training program in boosting stroke clinicians' self-efficacy in mood screening. Further studies should evaluate and explore other changes in clinical practices as a result of the training.