Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Projects
Access Control
Open Access
Embargo Period
5-2-2017
Degree Program
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Degree Track
Family Nurse Practioner
Year Degree Awarded
2017
Month Degree Awarded
May
Keywords
Intimate Partner Violence, Domestic Violence, Screening
Advisor
Emma Dundon
DNP Project Chair
Emma Dundon
DNP Project Member Name
Pamela Aselton
DNP Project Outside Member Name
Rebecca Shields
Abstract
Background: Intimate partner violence (IPV) has become pervasive in our society and is a major public health threat. More than one in three women (35.6%) and one in four men (28.5%) in the United States have experienced violence at the hands of an intimate partner at a cost of 12.6 billion annually. Intimate partner violence includes physical, sexual or psychological assault, including physical aggression, sexual coercion, psychological abuse and controlling behaviors by one who is, was or wants to be in an intimate relationship. Health care provider contacts are an appropriate place for an intervention aimed at reducing the rates of IPV; however that routinely do not screen clients because of time constraints, discomfort with the subject and lacking knowledge of resources for referral when a victim discloses abuse.
Methods: The effectiveness of providing training and resources to health care providers in increasing rates of screening for IPV was evaluated using response technology, with pre- and post-test questions embedded into the beginning and conclusion of the presentation, followed a week later by an online survey. Results: Eight professionals attended the presentation. Attendees indicated an increase in the intent to regularly screen clients for IPV between the pre- and post-tests. Participants also reported an increase in their comfort level in discussing the issue. Discussion: Providing health care providers training in screening methods and available resources for referral can increase willingness to screen for IPV. The findings suggest that incorporating more comprehensive screening tools into medical practices may increase the number of IPV victims who receive appropriate referrals and support.
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