Introduction In the United States, as well as many other countries and cultures, postpartum depression is prevalent, but many times overlooked or not diagnosed. Postpartum depression is a “mood disorder that occurs with alarming frequency with documented prevalence of 10% to 15% during the first 3 months after delivery” (Horowitz, et. al, 2013, p. 287). Throughout hospitals, nurses are being educated about postpartum depression, which allows them to educate patients on what postpartum depression is and how to recognize the signs. If unrecognized and left untreated, women are at an increased risk of future depressive episodes and functional impairment (Katon et. al, 2014). There are many initiatives in place to increase the amount of screening and education that is occurring for postpartum depression.
Evidence-Based Practice A nurse should recognize signs of postpartum depression, as well as opportunities to educate women and their family. Postpartum depression has numerous risk factors, as well as signs and symptoms. The nurse and patient should understand what postpartum depression is so they will be able to recognize risk factors, as well as signs and symptoms earlier. The National Guideline Clearinghouse provides “evidence-based practice guidelines that strongly support identification and screening for depressive symptoms in the postpartum period,” these screenings are both beneficial for the nurse and patient (Schaar, 2010, p.S37). The risk factors that are included
