Stroke and depression are two of the leading causes of death and disability, with post-stroke depression being the result. Post-stroke depression can lead to increased stay length, decreased rehabilitation engagement, increased morbidity, and decreased quality of life. Depression screening is a critical component of post-stroke care, as it enables the identification and intervention of depressive symptoms among stroke patients. This evidence-based project's purpose is to enhance stroke care through depression screening and raising awareness of depression among patients who have suffered a stroke. The project was implemented in a neurological unit at a midwestern trauma 2 Hospital, on a 34-bed unit. All patients admitted with a primary diagnosis of stroke, transient ischemic attack, or cerebrovascular accident with a National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) of four or greater were included in post-stroke depression screening. A comparison before and after nursing education will be measured, which will include (Patient Health Questionnaire) PHQ-9 screening of patients who survived a stroke with an NIHSS score of four or greater, patients with a PHQ-9 score, and referrals to the Neurology clinic, percentage of nursing staff on unit who completed education, and documentation of patient education about depression.
Read
