A 21-year-old woman presents to the PMHNP with a chief complaint of "being depressed for a while now." After a complete psychiatric evaluation with administration of the PHQ-9, the PMHNP considers sending this patient for inpatient hospitalization. Which of the following was her likely score?

Choice A reason: A score of 10 indicates moderate depression, typically managed outpatient, and is unlikely to warrant hospitalization alone. Choice B reason: A score of 15 suggests moderately severe depression, which may require close monitoring but not necessarily inpatient care. Choice C reason: A PHQ-9 score of 25 reflects severe depression with potential risk of self-harm or functional impairment, justifying consideration for inpatient hospitalization. Choice D reason: A score of 5 indicates mild depression, not sufficient to require inpatient care.