ABSTRACT

Clinical Issue: Postpartum Black mothers are at high risk for posttraumatic stress disorder related to childbirth trauma. The lack of screening has caused unaddressed maternal mental health issues and inadequate treatment. The parent project and Chicago BirthWorks Collective partake to this quality improvement initiatives aiming to increase Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual Disorder, 5th Edition (PCL-5) screening for CB-PTSD.
 
Summary of Supporting Literature: Evidence suggests that utilizing screening tools and having collaborative approach enhances the understanding of CB-PTSD. The interventions lead to higher-quality perinatal care that can significantly impact on maternal quality of life, parenting styles, family dynamics, and mother-child connections (Grisbrook, et al., 2021).
 
Project Implementation: This study utilized the Kurt Lewin’s Change Theory through Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) method. Pre and post surveys were used during educational training to assess doulas’ knowledge, skills, and practices regarding PCL-5 screening for CB-PTSD. The surveys’ result was evaluated for the acceptability of incorporating PCL-5 screening into doulas practice. Collaboration with stakeholders except doulas posed a barrier to the study.
 
Outcomes: Doulas reported 85% acceptance rate in utilizing PCL-5 screening in their practice. Frequency distribution, percentage, and weighted mean were used to analyze and understand the study’s results. 
 
Clinical Implications for Practice: This DNP project can significantly improve perinatal mental health through the integration of PCL-5 screening into doulas’ practice. Establishing referrals for postpartum mothers scored 31-33 or higher in PCL-5 screening should be included in future projects.