Date of Conferral

12-1-2025

Date of Award

December 2025

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Barbara Gross

Abstract

Abstract Depression remains one of the most prevalent and underdiagnosed mental health conditions globally, resulting in substantial morbidity, diminished quality of life, and increased healthcare costs. The purpose of this Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project was to improve early detection of depression among adults in a primary care setting through a structured staff education program on the use of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) screening tool. A mixed-methods quality improvement design guided implementation over a six-week period with nine clinical staff participants, including nurses, medical assistants, and providers. The educational intervention comprised a PowerPoint presentation, interactive discussion, and post-training skills demonstration. Pre- and post-intervention surveys measured staff knowledge, confidence, and screening compliance. Quantitative results indicated significant improvement in screening rates from 35% pre-intervention to 82% post-intervention, with staff knowledge scores increasing from 68% to 94%, and 100% of participants reporting enhanced confidence in PHQ-9 administration. Qualitative feedback supported increased awareness, competence, and perceived value of depression screening in improving patient outcomes. The findings affirm that structured, evidence-based staff education fosters sustainable practice change and advances early depression identification within primary care. Integration of PHQ-9 training into annual competencies and new-hire orientation is recommended to maintain long-term compliance. This project demonstrates the essential leadership role of DNP-prepared nurses in bridging evidence and practice to promote mental health equity, enhance quality of care, and contribute to positive social change.

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