Date of Conferral

11-7-2025

Date of Award

November 2025

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Julibeth Lauren

Abstract

This Doctor of Nursing Practice project addressed the absence of evidence-based depression screening among military members and veterans with chronic pain. Contrary to national guidelines, no standardized depression screening process was in place. This gap in practice was attributed to inadequate staff knowledge and understanding in using such tools. The purpose of this project was to evaluate whether staff education on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) improved knowledge and confidence, in evaluating for and identifying depression in a high-risk population. The practice-focused question asked: Will staff education on the importance and consistent use PHQ-9 increase knowledge and confidence in depression screening among chronic pain patients? The project was guided by the Johns Hopkins evidence-based practice model (JHNEBPM), the ADDIE model, Watson’s theory of human caring, and Leininger’s culture care theory. A comprehensive literature review was conducted using databases to identify 1,095 articles, five of which were selected for inclusion and appraised using the JHNEBPM tool. A quantitative pre- and post-knowledge assessment was used. Twenty-three participants completed the assessments and integrated with an educational intervention. Data analyzed through the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test, revealing a statistically significant improvement (Z= 0.0, p = .0013). Implementation of staff education was supported by the findings of this project. Additionally, statistical significance revealed transferability of this staff education project in educating staff and improving outcomes related to the identification of those with depression in chronic pain settings.

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