For this presentation, select an area of nurse practitioner (NP) practice that is of interest to you and in which you would like to see a practice change occur.

Presenting Areas of Interest Power Point Presentation

Early assessment of health concerns is important, especially depression among teenagers. Early identification and treatment of depression in teenagers can help prevent negative outcomes. In my presentation I will talk about the importance of evidence based projects in nursing and the profession. Then, I’ll show an example of how the Advancing Research and Clinical Practice by Close Collaboration model can be applied to developing an evidence based project. Finally, two NONPF skills that are applicable to the project will also be discussed. After reviewing the existing knowledge on depression among teenagers, I’ll identify the problem and suggest a change in practice. Lastly, I will determine two external and internal factors that may impact implementation.

Title of Slide 1: Early Assessment For Health-Related Issues: Teenage Depression

The most common issue in mental health among teens is depression. An early identification of the problem and an intervention are key in preventing adverse outcomes. This presentation will highlight the value of evidence-based project in nursing, demonstrate the ARCC Model, and list two NONPF Competencies that apply to the project. Next, it will examine the existing knowledge on depression among teenagers. It will identify the problem and suggest a change in practice. The presentation will then identify both internal and external influences that may impact on the change recommended.

Slide 3: Evidence-Based Projects Master’s-prepared nurses should engage in evidence-based projects related to nursing practice and profession to promote better health outcomes for patients. The best evidence is integrated into the project, along with clinical expertise and patient preferences, to help inform decisions. It is essential for quality improvement to ensure interventions and strategies that are efficient, effective and safe. Evidence-based projects also foster the development of new knowledge and the translation of research into practice (Buresh & Gordon, 2013).

Slide 4: Model Conceptual The ARCC model can be used as a model concept to create a research-based project. The ARCC Model consists of 4 phases. It is interactive and multidirectional. Researchers, clinicians and administrators work together to develop the model. ARCC is a model that emphasizes sustainability, stakeholder participation, and context (Melnyk, et. al., 2014.

Slide 5: Areas of Interest Depression is a mental health problem that affects many teenagers. It can lead to serious outcomes, including suicide and substance use. About 20% of teens suffer from depression, which is frequently underdiagnosed. Early detection and treatment can improve the long-term outlook and prevent negative outcomes. Although screening teenagers for depression is effective (AACAP 2018), it’s not always implemented into clinical practice.

Concern/Issue and Change Recommendation Slide 6: The concern is under-identification of depression and its undertreatment in teens, both of which have serious implications. It is recommended that a primary care screening program be implemented for teenagers with depression. The screening program must use a valid tool such as PHQ-9, which is validated, in close collaboration with primary care, mental healthcare, and the families. Screening programs should include protocols for referrals, assessments, and treatments of positive cases. This change was made to better identify and treat depression among teenagers, and prevent negative outcomes.

A Slide on Factors that Influence Change The availability of funds, time and staff as well as the skills and knowledge of primary personnel are two factors which can influence the change.