CASE STUDY

A 26-year-old new mother reports increased irritability, fatigue, and weight loss. She notes that the symptoms started worsening 2 months ago when she went back to work. She is unable to focus at work and has lost interest in her job and previous leisure activities since giving birth. She is breastfeeding her 8-month-old daughter.

CASE STUDY QUESTIONS

1. According to the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendation on screening for depression and suicide risk in adults, what is the most appropriate next step?

• A. Determine whether she has a history of depression.

• B. Determine whether she has a family history of depression or other mood disorders.

• C. Screen for major depressive disorder.

• D. Recommend that the patient quit her job and stay home.

• E. Screen for thyroid disorders and advise the patient that the mood issues are likely “baby blues.”

2.  The USPSTF recommendation on screening for depression and suicide risk in adults defines perinatal depression as which of the following?

• A. Depressive episodes that occur during pregnancy.

• B. Only depressive episodes that start within 6 weeks after delivery.

• C. Depressive episodes that occur during the postpartum period (the first 12 months after delivery).

• D. Only depressive episodes that start prior to delivery.