PMH-C Maternal Well-being & Emotional Support 2

Question 1

A client at 32 weeks gestation reports feeling emotionally numb, detached from her pregnancy, and unable to imagine herself as a mother. Which condition does this presentation most suggest?

Accepted Answer

Prenatal depression with anhedonia

Answer

Emotional numbness, detachment, and inability to bond with the pregnancy are hallmark features of prenatal depression, particularly the anhedonic subtype.

Question 2

When using the EPDS with a postpartum client who scores 13, what is the most appropriate immediate clinical action?

Accepted Answer

Conduct a thorough clinical interview including suicide risk assessment

Answer

An EPDS score of 13 or above warrants a detailed clinical interview to assess symptom severity, functioning, and safety before determining the appropriate level of care.

Question 3

A nurse asks how to differentiate postpartum blues from postpartum depression. The most accurate distinguishing factor is:

Accepted Answer

Duration and functional impairment beyond two weeks postpartum

Answer

Postpartum blues typically resolve within 10–14 days without functional impairment, whereas postpartum depression persists beyond two weeks and significantly affects daily functioning.

Question 4

A lactating client with postpartum depression asks about medication safety. Which statement about SSRIs and breastfeeding is most accurate?

Accepted Answer

Sertraline and paroxetine have the lowest detectable levels in breast milk and are preferred

Answer

Sertraline and paroxetine are considered first-line SSRI options during lactation because they have the lowest relative infant doses detected in breast milk.

Question 5

Which therapeutic approach has the strongest evidence base for treating postpartum depression in a non-pharmacological context?

Accepted Answer

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

Answer

CBT has the strongest evidence base among non-pharmacological treatments for postpartum depression, targeting negative thought patterns and maladaptive behaviors.

(PMH-C) Perinatal Mental Health Certification Practice Test

(PMH-C) Perinatal Mental Health Certification Practice Test

PMH-C Maternal Well-being & Emotional Support 2