Abuse by care professionals. Part 4: an exploration of available resources

This fourth article will explore the resources available to those who are abused and also the measures available to prevent abuse by healthcare professionals. It was found that, despite good intentions, available measures, which include training and supervision of those likely to abuse, changes in environment, relying on the victim's own support network and generalist professional support networks, are far from adequate. There are a number of measures available to prevent abuse by care professionals from happening. These include clinical supervision, continuing professional development and training, current research awareness and implementation and vastly improved communication between care providers. The only organization that appears to be working in the field of abuse by healthcare professionals is the London-based voluntary sector organization WITNESS.