Screening for depression after stroke : occupational therapists' performance to protocols

The ability of occupational therapists to enact post-stroke depression screening protocols was considered. The medical notes of 12 patients admitted to an in-patient stroke unit over a 3-month period were consulted to assess timely, appropriate administration, interpretation, and recording of the results of administering the protocols. Post-stroke depression screening by occupational therapists occurred for 83% of patients. Of the screens conducted, all of the patients were administered the correct tool. In 100% of cases screened, the outcome was recorded and in at least 80% clinicians had provided feedback to the patient on the results of the screen.