Date of Award
5-2025
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing (ND)
Department
Nursing
Chair
Leslie K. Robbins, PhD, APRN, PMHCNS-BC, PMHNP-BC, FAANP, ANEF
Co-Chair
Karen Fowler PhD, RN, CENP, CNE
Abstract
Background: Bipolar disorder is a life-long, disabling mental health condition that affects people universally, without discrimination. Its symptoms often overlap with those of depression, making accurate diagnosis particularly challenging. As a result, many individuals receive inappropriate treatment, leading to poorer health outcomes and a prolonged path to effective management.
Problem: Studies show that up to 70% of people with bipolar disorder are initially misdiagnosed, resulting in a delay of 5 to 10 years between the onset of symptoms and an accurate diagnosis, which leads to poorer health outcomes
Intervention: This project aims to enhance the diagnostic accuracy of Bipolar I disorder by implementing the Rapid Mood Screener (RMS) for patients presenting with depressive symptoms. The RMS offers a substantial advantage, with an 88% sensitivity, 80% specificity, and 84% overall accuracy in differentiating between depression and bipolar disorder. The screening tool was administered in a behavioral health acute inpatient setting for patients endorsing depressive symptoms during their initial visits.
Results: The implementation of the RMS screening tool into practice proved effective in enhancing the accuracy of Bipolar I disorder diagnosis.
Conclusion: This quality improvement (QI) project demonstrated the potential of the RMS to improve diagnostic accuracy for Bipolar I disorder in patients presenting with depressive symptoms. By distinguishing between depression and bipolar disorder more effectively, the RMS can help reduce misdiagnoses and promote timely and appropriate treatment.
Recommended Citation
Chaparro, Claudia, "Mood Check: Screening for Better Outcomes" (2025). Cohort XIII. 2.
https://scholarworks.utep.edu/cohort_13/2