Evaluation and management of intimate partner violence in the emergency department

Intimate partner violence (IPV) and emergency medicine intersect when individuals experiencing IPV present to emergency departments for medical care, either on their own or when brought in by law enforcement authorities for medical evaluation and social services. Coordination of care is required, with particular attention paid to the sensitive nature of the patient's presentation and with an emphasis on trauma-informed care. Emergent medical needs must be balanced with concerns for the patient's emotional well-being and the need for advocacy and social services. This supplement reviews best practices and evidence-based recommendations for the evaluation and management of patients who have experienced IPV, with a focus on the considerations for traumatic injuries in these patients.