CCP Depression Screening & PHQ-9 3

Question 1

In patients with chronic medical conditions, PHQ-9 somatic items (sleep, fatigue, appetite) may inflate scores due to the underlying disease. What is one recommended approach?

Accepted Answer

Apply the standard scoring unchanged, using clinical judgment for interpretation

Answer

Most experts recommend using standard PHQ-9 scoring in medically ill patients while applying clinical judgment, rather than excluding somatic items.

Question 2

What is the PHQ-2, and when is it typically used?

Accepted Answer

A 2-question version used as an initial screening tool before administering the full PHQ-9

Answer

The PHQ-2 consists of the first two PHQ-9 items and is used as a brief initial screen; a score of ≥3 triggers administration of the full PHQ-9.

Question 3

Which of the following populations was the PHQ-9 originally validated in?

Accepted Answer

Primary care and obstetrics patients

Answer

Kroenke, Spitzer, and Williams validated the PHQ-9 in primary care and obstetrics clinic patients in their landmark 2001 study.

Question 4

The PHQ-A is a version of the PHQ-9 adapted for which group?

Accepted Answer

Adolescents aged 12–17

Answer

The PHQ-A (Adolescent) modifies language for adolescents and has been validated for ages 12–17.

Question 5

A 72-year-old patient with heart failure scores 8 on the PHQ-9. What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Reassess in 4–6 weeks and consider watchful waiting with supportive counseling

Answer

A score of 5–9 (mild depression) warrants watchful waiting, patient education, and follow-up reassessment rather than immediate pharmacotherapy or emergency referral.

(CCP) Chronic Care Professional Certification Practice Test

(CCP) Chronic Care Professional Certification Practice Test

CCP Depression Screening & PHQ-9 3