Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious mental health condition that can be challenging to diagnose due to its varying symptoms. As a result, multiple healthcare providers collaborate in its prevention, screening, and treatment. Nurses play a pivotal role in this process, requiring essential knowledge and skills OBJECTIVES: To assess nurses’ knowledge and attitudes regarding PPD. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among maternity nurses at a university hospital who have direct contact with postpartum patients. Our sample was a convenience sampleData was collected using a self-administered anonymous questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of two parts : the first part collected demographic information about the nurses, and the second part assessed nurses’ knowledge and attitudes regarding postpartum depression. RESULTS: A total of 50 nurses participated in the study. Nearly half (49%) of participants had over 10 years of professional seniority. The majority (92%) were aware of the postpartum period during which the disorder occurs, as well as the early warning signs of PPD (82%). However, more than half of the participants (52%) were unaware of the risk factors for PPD. The majority (92%) were aware that nurses play a major role in early detection of this disorder. Only 52% knew that the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is the screening tool for PPD. Nearly half of the suggestions to improve the management of PPD (46%) focused on improving patient conditions and well-being. Moreover, 40% of participants made suggestions centered on collaboration and communication. CONCLUSIONS: Despite their involvement in postpartum care, nurses demonstrated limited knowledge of postpartum depression risk factors, emphasizing the need for enhanced education and support. DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST: None Declared