Education Toolkit: How to Screen Older Adults for Depression using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)
This toolkit is designed as a health professions educational resource for educators seeking to teach healthcare staff and students on using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) to screen older adults for depression in long-term care. The content of this education places specific emphasis on how to recognize signs and symptoms of depression, how depression is different from dementia, when and how to screen for depression using the PHQ-2, strategies to promote safety and wellness in persons with depression. Experiential learning techniques include the use of video simulations (found in Education Toolkit Part 2-3) for participants to practice and receive feedback using the screening forms. Slides, handouts and evaluation materials are also included for adaptation and use by the educator.
Simulation 1: Mr. Miller
In video Simulation 1 you will meet Mr. Miller, a resident at a long-term care home, and two staff members, a PSW and a nurse. The PSW has expressed to the nurse that “he has not been himself lately,” which has triggered further assessment. Please watch and follow the case while scoring the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ).
Simulation 2: Mr. Miller, 2 months later
Two months have passed since Video Simulation 2, and the PSW notifies the nurse that Mr. Miller only “ate half of his breakfast,” he is not answering her questions, or taking care of his plants. These concerns have triggered further assessment. Please watch and follow the case while scoring the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ).