If postpartum depression is suspected, what should the nursing plan include?

If postpartum depression is suspected, what should the nursing plan include?

• A. Immediate medication without evaluation
• B. Ignore symptoms
• C. Referral for mental health support
• D. Only provide general advice

Answer: (C)

When postpartum depression is suspected, the plan should prioritize getting the mother into professional mental health evaluation and treatment quickly. This means making a referral to mental health services so she can have a formal assessment, diagnosis, and an individualized plan that may include psychotherapy, support services, and, if indicated, medication prescribed and monitored by a clinician. The nurse also screens for safety, discusses the impact on mother–infant bonding, coordinates with obstetric care, and arranges follow-up to track mood, functioning, and adherence to the plan.

Starting medication without a full evaluation can lead to inappropriate treatment or missing contraindications. Ignoring symptoms delays care and can worsen outcomes for both mother and baby. Providing only general advice fails to address the clinical needs of postpartum depression, which requires professional assessment and targeted support.