Implementing a depression screening algorithm in a memory clinic.

Abstract

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE\nImproved and appropriate utilization of depression screening will increase the quality of life for those individuals with dementia who may have undetected or untreated depression.\n\n\nSYNTHESIS OF EVIDENCE\nDepressive symptoms may be an early sign of dementia or occur at any stage.\n\n\nPROPOSED CHANGE AND IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES\nAn algorithm was piloted in which initial cognitive screenings were administered prior to using either the Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia (CSDD) screen or Geriatric Depression Scale Short Form (GDS-SF) screen.\n\n\nEVALUATION\nFindings included an increase in depression screening and an improvement of clinician knowledge of screening tools.\n\n\nCONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE\nThis project enhanced knowledge among the clinicians, however, only one provider improved practices.