Universal Depression Screening for Pediatric Adolescent Patients at Well Visits Using the PHQ-9M Within the Pediatric...

Background: Pediatric primary care providers are at the forefront for providing care/resources for adolescent patients suffering from depression. Objective: This study aimed to increase depression screening, identification, and management within the pediatric primary care setting. Methods: Universal depression screening for patients 12-21 years old using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 Modified for Adolescents (PHQ-9M) for 2 months. Manual retrospective chart and coding reviews were completed for June and July 2021 and June and July 2022 to compare depression screening rates, correlation with depression diagnosis, referral to mental health specialists, and follow-up care received. A pretest and posttest were given to assess provider and staff knowledge of adolescent depression before and after an educational presentation. Results: Of 442 patients, three patients (1.4%) were identified and diagnosed with depression, unspecified (F32.A), with 12 patients (5.8%) being identified and diagnosed with an emotional/behavioral concern (F98.9). There were 14 referrals (6.8%) completed and 12 (5.8%) scheduled follow-ups; however, only 4 (1.9%) follow-ups were completed. The provider and staff scores increased by 2.5%. Conclusions: The PHQ-9M is effective in detecting adolescent depression, but provider and staff education are crucial. Implications for Nursing Practice: Universal depression screening using the PHQ-9M can be helpful in the identification and management of adolescent depression.