Implementation of Routine Screening to Detect Early Cases of Depression and Anxiety in Hispanic Adolescents in the Primary Care Setting

Author

LaToya HaywardFollow

Date of Award

Fall 2022

Document Type

DNP Project

Project Team Faculty Member

Dr. Amy Hamilton

Project Team Faculty Member

Dr. Jerrica Ampadu

Keywords

Hispanic adolescents, adolescent depression screening, adolescent anxiety screening, routine screening, primary care

Abstract

Depression and anxiety are among the leading causes of illness and disability in adolescents and are two of the most prevalent mental health conditions in Latino youth. If left unrecognized and untreated, these conditions can lead to decreased quality of life and increased rates of suicide. Researchers recommend early mental health screening to occur in the primary care setting. Through routine screening using evidence-based screening tools (PHQ-9 and GAD-7), the primary goal of this quality improvement project was to increase early detection of depression and anxiety in primary care and initiate early treatment. Project methods included implementation of new workflow, developing a referral toolkit, and staff education through PowerPoint presentation. Project evaluation assessed pre- and post- survey results and quantitative data from pre- and post- implementation screening. Results indicate all staff (N=2) strongly agreed there was a need for routine screening in their practice, routine screening would help identify early cases of depression and anxiety, and confidence in sustainability. Three-months pre-implementation, screenings were performed during 11 of 38 visits (28.94%); post implementation screenings were performed during 64 of 70 visits (91.43%). Post implementation mental health referrals were provided during 10 of 13 positive PHQ-9 assessments, one patient refused referral and three were missed. All nine positive GAD-7 cases were provided referrals, three patients refused. Routine screening in primary care can facilitate early identification of adolescents who are at risk, leading to early interventions and treatment. Early interventions and treatment can help improve and/or resolve symptoms in the Hispanic population.

Recommended Citation

Hayward, LaToya, "Implementation of Routine Screening to Detect Early Cases of Depression and Anxiety in Hispanic Adolescents in the Primary Care Setting" (2022). Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects. 236.
https://spark.siue.edu/dnpprojects/236

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