Screening for Intimate Partner Violence in the ED-Screening for Intimate Partner Violence in the ED

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The AEMP December webinar, led by Tiffany Andrews with guest speakers Dr. Hilary Ashton-Glover and Amanda Hitch, focused on intimate partner violence (IPV) screening in emergency departments (ED). IPV affects one in four women and one in ten men in their lifetime, involving physical, sexual, psychological abuse, or stalking by a current or former romantic partner. COVID-19 exacerbated IPV, dubbed the "shadow pandemic," due to victims being isolated with abusers, increased stressors, limited access to help, and higher alcohol and firearm sales. Risk factors include economic hardship, isolation, pregnancy, substance abuse, and history of violence.<br /><br />The speakers emphasized the critical role of ED providers as often the first contact for victims, advocating routine, private, compassionate screening using tools like HITS and WASP. They highlighted barriers such as patient fear, presence of abusers, language, and staff discomfort. A case study of a 32-year-old woman with a proximal humerus fracture illustrated common challenges, including accompanied abusers limiting disclosure. The patient later confidentially reported IPV, underscoring the importance of privacy and repeated screening.<br /><br />The discussion addressed medico-legal responsibilities, detailed documentation, safety planning, and resource awareness, especially in rural areas. They stressed empathetic provider attitudes to improve victim disclosures, noting only 5% of IPV victims are recognized in the ED despite representing up to 25% of female patients. The session concluded by urging consistent IPV screening and awareness to support vulnerable patients effectively.

Keywords

Intimate Partner Violence

IPV Screening

Emergency Departments

HITS Screening Tool

WAST Screening Tool

COVID-19 Shadow Pandemic

Barriers to IPV Screening

Emergency Clinician Training

COVID-19 Impact

WASP Screening Tool

Medico-Legal Responsibilities

Victim Support Resources