Infusing the Principles of Trauma-Informed Care Into Emergency Nursing: A Comprehensive Approach to Change Practice

The emergency department is a frequent entry point into the healthcare system for victims of violence. Currently, a knowledge deficit and clinical practice gap exists among emergency nurses regarding their consistent ability to implement a trauma-informed approach in their interactions with forensic clients. Emergency nurses at all levels of professional development, senior undergraduate nursing students, new graduate nurses, and experienced nurses should be well informed regarding the prevalence of violence, basic clinical forensic nursing practice, and the principles of trauma-informed care. A comprehensive approach is required to both identify and address the trauma associated with violence. Through reflecting on Benner's Novice to Expert framework, strategies are proposed for the implementation of a comprehensive plan. An inclusive approach to the implementation of the principles of trauma-informed care into emergency nursing may ultimately lead to a transformation in culture in which nurses ask, "What has happened to you?" instead of "What is wrong with you?"