A survey of domestic violence in a university emergency department

To determine prevalence of domestic violence among female patients presenting to the department.

An anonymous survey distributed to female patients presenting over a 30-day period.

Response rate was 12.5% (190 of 1,516). Forty-four percent of respondents reported being a victim of domestic violence in the past Seventy-nine percent knew where to get help, and 64% would report it. Eight percent reported their visit to the department resulted from domestic violence.

Prevalence of domestic violence from the sample was similar to previously reported rates. Physicians and nurses generally inquired when patients presented resulting from domestic violence, but screening rates need improvement.