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Updated: Jun 5, 2026
Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
Published on: August 25, 2014
Advancing equitable postpartum depression screening in a level-IV NICU: a quality improvement approach shaped by
Shelbye Schweinhart1, Claire Niehaus Milligan2, Shannon Evans2
1University of Louisville affiliated with Norton Children's Hospital, Louisville, KY, USA. Shelbye.schweinhart.1@louisville.edu.
Background:
Given the incidence and impact of postpartum depression (PPD) on families in the NICU, we aimed to increase the percentage of birthing parents screened for PPD from 0 to 90% over 18-months and provide psychosocial support.
Methods:
Planned experimentation was used to design an effective screening framework in a level IV NICU. Interventions included process standardization, electronic health record (EHR) support, and data visualization for feedback. Data were displayed on a control chart and stratified for race and language to ensure equitable delivery.
Results:
Provider screening utilizing the PHQ-2 proved the most reliable screening framework in our context. Screening rates increased to a mean of 75%, with 90% of positive screens referred to a unit psychologist; rates were comparable across stratified groups.
Conclusion:
Successful implementation of PPD screening in tertiary NICUs requires planning to ensure efficient and equitable processes and adequate psychosocial support.
