Abuse/Neglect Question

GailWHNP · Mar 4, 2003

In FL, every health-care provider is required to inquire re domestic violence. As a nurse practitioner, I include a short assessment usually during the initial interview when I send the accompaning party outside to complete a bit of registration paperwork. If she admits to DV, she is referred to the social worker who will see her at her home, when she's alone.

The hospital also has a general statement on their admitting form as someone else has indicated above. There's *always* paperwork to be completed at registration, so I send the family members to complete that. I never, never, never ever ask in front of family, although I have seen some nurses do this, which boggles my mind. Again, if the answer is yes, the social worker talks with the pt.

I have actually had about 10 pts go from my office to the abuse shelter, usually after their first appt. They get their important papers together, come for 2nd or 3rd appt, then go. Unfortunately, they didn't all stay there!

Gail

elleRN · Mar 4, 2003

i am going to try to start asking in the bathroom as HazeK suggested. It is on our admission form as one question are you being hurt, abused or neglected at home? i don't feel it is appropriate to ask in front of the sig other. and the sig other is always there! the area i work has such a low incidence of women coming in unmarried etc. i am also thinking of maybe showing her the question on the paper and having her check off yes or no. that might work too. i haven't been asking the question as much as i should which is so terrible.

sbic56, BSN, RN · Mar 4, 2003

i am also thinking of maybe showing her the question on the paper and having her check off yes or no. that might work too.

That is what we do. It works very well and I am willing to bet we get more honest answers that way, too.