Screening for and treating intimate partner violence in the workplace

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Occupational Health
• Violence Prevention

Background:

• Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a major global public health issue, disproportionately affecting women.
• Healthcare providers are often the first point of contact for victims of IPV.
• Occupational health nurses are uniquely positioned to identify and intervene in cases of IPV.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the role of occupational health nurses in addressing intimate partner violence.
• To emphasize the importance of routine screening for IPV in the workplace.
• To advocate for the integration of IPV screening and treatment into existing health promotion activities.

Main Methods:

• Routine screening for intimate partner violence.
• Fostering a confidential and supportive workplace environment.
• Providing appropriate and effective care to abused women.

Main Results:

• Increased likelihood of identifying victims of IPV.
• Facilitation of early intervention to prevent trauma and injury.
• Creation of a safe space for disclosure and treatment.

Conclusions:

• Occupational health nurses play a critical role in preventing and intervening in intimate partner violence.
• Workplace screening for IPV can lead to early identification and improved outcomes for abused women.
• Integrating IPV services into occupational health nursing benefits all employees by promoting a safer and healthier work environment.