Intimate partner violence: screening and intervention in the health care setting

The prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV) has been documented in numerous populations and cultures. IPV is a universal social problem that affects individuals, families, and communities throughout the world. Research supports the idea that victims of IPV view health care providers as a source of help. However, nurses report feelings of inadequacy in their ability to screen for IPV.

This quality improvement project was undertaken to increase awareness of IPV by educating nursing staff working in the health care setting. The educational program was evaluated through pretests and posttests. A universal IPV screening question was added to the hospital admission intake procedure. Through retrospective chart reviews before and after the educational session, screening for IPV by the nursing staff was evaluated by examination of disclosure rates and referral data. Populations served or affected include nurses and ultimately victims of IPV.

The findings support the idea that an educational program can increase nurses' confidence and competency in screening for IPV. The results of chart review will determine whether there is a significant change in behavior relative to the increase in knowledge.

Additional measures may be needed to enhance nurses' screening and interventional work with patients regarding IPV victimization.