Following their conversation Dr Smith completes a General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) with Mary as he feels this, in addition to the SADQ-H 10, will provide useful information to help monitor changes in her mood over the following weeks: Mary: GHQ-12 (Version 1) [PDF, 183KB]
See the Additional Information box for more information on the GHQ-12.
Mary’s score on the mood screening tool indicates a possible mood disorder. RCP (2016) and SIGNÔÇ»118 (2010) guidelines state that post-stroke depression can be treated with antidepressants, although RCP (2016) recommend that brief psychological interventions are considered first.
It is decided that the most appropriate person to speak to Mary at this point is the stroke physician, Dr Smith.
Mary’s SADQ-H 10 sheet: Stroke Aphasic Depression Questionnaire Hospital Version 10 items [PDF, 49KB]
The SADQ-H 10, although specifically developed to screen for depression in those with aphasia, is a quick and easily administered observational tool to use with all patients following stroke.
For more information on Mood screening view the topic loop which can be found in the grey menu box on the right of this page.
See the Additional Information box for more information on the SADQ-H 10.
Routine multi-disciplinary team meeting may help clarify this further.
Staff within the rehabilitation unit have been alerted to Mary’s possible mood disturbance and a decision has been made to monitor the situation as she settles into her new surroundings.
However, after the following two weeks staff notice that Mary:
Mary has spent 2 weeks on the acute stroke unit and is about to be transferred to a stroke rehabilitation unit. Staff on the acute unit wonder whether Mary may have a mood disorder.
They observe:
Background information
Mary Lumley is a 60-year old teacher who is about to retire. She and her husband (who is fit and well) are looking forward to their retirement together. She has two grown-up children and three grandchildren who she is actively involved with.
Mary is socially active and has varied hobbies and interests including walking, gardening, dancing, playing bridge and reading. She is a well organised woman who takes care of all household tasks. Mary does not smoke but enjoys a glass of wine in the evening with her meal. She had no psychological difficulties before her stroke.
Organisations that may help;
