Recognition of adolescent depression in primary care by nurse- practitioners: a descriptive study

Update Item Information
Title Recognition of adolescent depression in primary care by nurse- practitioners: a descriptive study
Publication Type thesis
School or College College of Nursing
Department Nursing
Author Hartle, Janna
Date 1995-06
Description Primary care providers, such as nurse-practitioners (NPs) often are the first to encounter depressed adolescents, particularly those with somatic complaints. NPs provide early recognition and referral for treatment of adolescent depression, interventions that can greatly decrease life-time morbidity and mortality of the disorder. Research documents that under-recognition of depressive disorders in primary care is, however, the reality. The purpose of this study was to examine the current practices of NPs regarding adolescent depression. This was considered an initial step toward explaining under-recognition and making recommendations for change. A questionnaire was distributed to all licensed NPs practicing in the state of Utah. The results demonstrated significant relationships between the use of screening tools and increased number of adolescents referred, as well as increased frequency of prescribing antidepressants for adolescents in rural settings. Though NPs recognized characteristics of adolescent depression, they may have overestimated the prevalence in the general population. Further research is needed to improve primary care recognition and management of adolescent depression. Emphasis on education, research and utilization of on-site mental health professionals is recommended.
Type Text
Publisher University of Utah
Subject Primary Care; Utah; Depression in Adolescence
Subject MESH Depression; Nurse Practitioners; Adolescent
Dissertation Institution University of Utah
Dissertation Name MS
Language eng
Relation is Version of Digital reproduction of "Recognition of adolescent depression in primary care by nurse- practitioners: a descriptive study." Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library. Print version of "Recognition of adolescent depression in primary care by nurse- practitioners: a descriptive study." available at J. Willard Marriott Library Special Collection. J25.5 1995 .H37.
Rights Management © Janna Hartle.
Format application/pdf
Format Medium application/pdf
Format Extent 1,373,475 bytes
Identifier undthes,4771
Source Original: University of Utah Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library (no longer available).
Master File Extent 1,373,519 bytes
ARK ark:/87278/s6c53nmq
Setname ir_etd
ID 190875
Reference URL https://collections.lib.utah.edu/ark:/87278/s6c53nmq
Back to Search Results