Intimate Partner Violence Among Women Diagnosed With Cancer

There is growing evidence that women diagnosed with cancer can experience intimate partner violence (IPV). This combined experience of cancer and abuse can have a profound effect on health and treatment outcomes for these cancer survivors.

The purpose of this literature review was to assess the presence of IPV among female cancer survivors and to provide oncology nurses with clinical guidelines about IPV.

A systematic strategy was used to locate original research from 4 databases: CINAHL, PubMed, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. Key words were used to help identify articles that focused on cancer, abuse, treatment decision making, and clinical guidelines.

The 10 selected articles that met the inclusion criteria were published between 2005 and 2014. The reviewed studies provided accounts of abusive partner behaviors toward women throughout their cancer trajectory. Global organizations provided the framework for clinical guidelines.

Challenges faced by women who are concurrently living with IPV and cancer survivorship can impact treatment decision making and health outcomes. The assessment and recognition of IPV by oncology nurses are essential to help create a clinical environment in which patients feel safe and supported.

This review includes clinical guidelines and describes legal considerations for oncology nurses to consider when they address and respond to IPV in their practice. The use of clinical guidelines that focus on IPV can provide standardized care in the oncology setting that can further help to meet the needs of these women.