Enhancing assessment of interpersonal violence (IPV) pregnancy-related homicide risk within nursing curricula

Abstract

Pregnancy and motherhood traditionally represent evolution of the next generation; yet, contemporary research and analyses confirm that this time can also be manifested in fear by the expectant mother within an environment of battering, cruelty, physical and emotional abuse, and sexual assault. Often to the surprise of many healthcare providers, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have consistently reported that Interpersonal Violence (IPV) related homicide is a leading cause of traumatic death among new and expectant mothers. In spite of these staggering statistical and anecdotal findings, universal screening for violence during pregnancy continues to be minimal. Forensic nurses might be prompted to respond to the consequences of violence and its resultant negative effects on expectant mothers by strategically incorporating systematic and consistent assessment into foundational nursing curricula regarding IPV as a leading risk factor for injury or death.

Sexual Coercion, Intimate Partner Violence, and Homicide: A Scoping Literature Review

“…Our review supports that the standard methods for intervention (i.e., universal screening) frequently yields low results due to a variety of barriers including the provider's lack of time or knowledge on the subject, lack of privacy, unfamiliarity with local IPV resources, or the victim's fear of increased violence if their partner finds out (Clements et al, 2011;Stonard & Whapples, 2016). Additionally, even when IPV is detected and a referral to resources are completed, risk of violence may prevent victims from accessing services, and the increased risk of abuse when a victim attempts to leave a violent relationship could cause further damage and potentially increase the risk of homicide (Adhia et al, 2019;Campbell et al, 2003;Cliffe et al, 2019;Decker et al, 2004).…”

Using a Delphi Method to Develop Competencies: The Case of Domestic Violence

“…In addition, studies showed that routine screening increased rates of disclosure [25] while the qualitative literature reported that most women support routine screening under most conditions, except when screening questions were asked in abrasive or judgmental tones of voice [26][27]. There are also some suggestions that paper and pencil self reports may be more effective in some health care settings [28][29] and legal settings [30] but these data were not available at the time of this project suggesting that a regular review and potential revision of the competencies is required.…”