Title : Enhancing care: Implementing post-TMS follow-up for monitoring treatment-resistant depression
Abstract:
Mental health is a common disorder that impacts all nursing care. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is FDA cleared for treatment resistant depression (TRD). Consistent with the chemical theory of depression, TMS utilizes magnetic fields to activate the brain's cells to release neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine to correct the imbalance. By restoring this chemical imbalance, the symptoms of depression are alleviated. In the outpatient psychiatric setting, there are currently no protocols recommend or in place to monitor if the results of TMS are maintained for if clients are at risk for relapse. Therefore, referral for additional TMS sessions is currently provided only if the client decides to return for treatment. As a result of current practice, it is essential to investigate post-TMS treatment maintenance guidelines as a means of monitoring for cases of relapse earlier. This project aims to explore the impact of a post-treatment follow-up to see if TMS results are sustainable or if maintenance or "booster" TMS treatment sessions are recommended. The findings of this project support the idea that nurses should inspire patients to continue communication with their mental health team post-treatment. This project explores the potential implementation of a post-treatment evaluation using the Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) four weeks after TMS therapy to gauge treatment outcomes. This intervention aims to elevate quality improvement efforts by integrating a post-TMS treatment assessment for treatment-resistant depression, discerning whether TMS effects endure or necessitate further intervention. Utilizing Pearson's Chi-square analysis, the project will scrutinize disparities in TMS referrals before and after instituting the PHQ-9 assessment. The findings of this project support the practice that nurses should educate on the importance of post-treatment follow-up and continued relationship with mental health providers in the event of relapse. Understanding the impact of TMS on clients with depression will also allow the nurse leader to be a better educator. The results also suggest significant clinical merit in introducing a post-treatment evaluation to identify clients who could benefit from additional TMS sessions, thereby ensuring sustained TMS outcomes and averting depression relapse.
Audience Take Away:
- The role of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)in the treatment of depression.
- Exploring the impact of assessing depression symptoms 4 weeks post-TMS Treatment
- Nurses will obtain knowledge to effectively support patients undergoing TMS therapy for depression.
- Understanding the importance of TMS follow-up empowers nurses to foster enhanced collaboration with psychiatrists, neurologists, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals, facilitating comprehensive treatment coordination and delivery for patients.
