Abstract
postnatal Depression (pND) is a significant problem which can impact on mothers and their families (Deverick and Guiney, 2016), yet international research indicates significant disparities in achieving routine screening to detect pND (El-Den, O'Reilly and Chen, 2015; Chaudron, Szilagyi and Kitzman, 2004). To date there are no studies identifying whether this is also the case in New Zealand. This dissertation aimed to understand if identified barriers and facilitators from previous international studies of failure to screen for pND, are the same experienced by NZ plunket Nurses (pNs) at the core one and core three plunket Well Child/Tamariki Ora (WCTO) visits, and to identify screening inequity.
The survey research method provided quantifiable statistical data from 188 pNs, as well as rich insights from their open responses. This study found that the most important influencing factors for equitable maternal mental health screening were organisational structures (time, available validated screening tool, routine screening, continuity of care, quiet and private settings, nurse training and clear guidelines), and nursing factors (confidence, knowledge, communication, and practice: partnership and cultural competence).
These findings are consistent with previous studies and provide further insight into the complex mix of organisational and nurse factors that impact on the implementation of pND screening, including on screening equity. Findings from this dissertation will be disseminated to inform education and practice development for plunket and the wider WCTO services to enhance equity of screening, improving early detection and outcomes for mothers, children and families in Aotearoa.