Chapter 1: Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness for Healthcare Professionals (Mandatory) 1 CE Hour
By: Robyn B. Caldwell, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP Learning outcomes Upon completion of this course, the learner will be able to: Discuss the prevalence of domestic and sexual violence and recent media exposure. Assess how survivors of domestic violence and sexual violence view their health, and assess their impact on the healthcare system. Course overview This course is intended to share information with all nurses on the concept of domestic and sexual violence when professionals perceive and make treatment decisions, ultimately resulting in disparities in health outcomes. These biases, often unconscious and unintentional, can shape behavior and produce differences in medical care along various lines, including race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, and socioeconomic status. Healthcare disparities stemming from implicit bias can manifest in several ways. For example, a healthcare provider might unconsciously give less attention to a patient or make assumptions about their medical needs based on race, gender, or age. The unconscious assumptions can lead to delayed or inadequate care, misdiagnoses, or inappropriate treatments, all of which can adversely impact Implicit bias in healthcare Implicit bias significantly affects how healthcare
Explain post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a sequela of domestic violence and sexual violence. Analyze the effects of domestic violence and sexual violence on specific populations. Identify laws that impact domestic violence and sexual violence.
caring for patients who are at risk or have been a target of domestic or sexual violence.
health outcomes. Addressing implicit bias in healthcare is crucial for achieving equity in medical treatment. Strategies to combat these biases involve education and awareness programs for healthcare professionals. These programs help individuals recognize and acknowledge their biases, fostering a more empathetic and unbiased approach to patient care. Additionally, implementing policies and procedures prioritizing equitable treatment for all patients can play a pivotal role in reducing healthcare disparities. Ultimately, confronting implicit bias in healthcare is essential to creating a more just and equitable healthcare system where everyone receives fair and equal treatment regardless of their background or characteristics.
INTRODUCTION
thorough assessment, awareness of local resources, and knowledge of state and national laws governing practice. Think about a real-world scenario like the following: You are caring for the wife of a prominent physician who presents with multiple bruises in various stages of healing. Based on your observations, you suspect that she may be a victim of abuse. This scenario highlights the critical need for healthcare providers to navigate challenging situations sensitively and respond appropriately. This course will equip you with the knowledge, skills, and strategies to effectively address domestic violence, promote victim safety, and advocate for necessary support services.
Despite reported decreases in domestic violence (DV) rates, its harmful impact on society persists. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this issue, with projections indicating a global increase of 20 percent, equating to approximately 15 million additional DV cases (Stanley, 2020). Factors contributing to this surge include heightened isolation, increased stress levels, economic anxiety, joblessness, substance use, and limited access to resources. Recognizing domestic violence as a pressing national healthcare concern, it is imperative for healthcare providers to address this issue proactively. Effectively caring for victims of domestic violence necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the topic, including timely recognition,
CASE STUDY
Rachel is a registered healthcare provider who works in a large community hospital’s emergency department (ED). She is assigned to admit and assess a 36-year-old female whose chief complaints are shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, and extreme anxiety. The patient is receiving oxygen via nasal cannula. A stat electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood work have been ordered. Her pulse rate is 128 and regular; her respiratory rate is 22; her blood pressure is 150/96.
As Rachel begins her assessment, she realizes that the patient is Allison Michel, the wife of a prominent physician, Dr. Andrew Michel. Dr. Michel is a neurosurgeon and is highly respected by his colleagues. Members of the nursing staff have an extremely favorable opinion of Dr. Michel’s skill as a surgeon and his professional interpersonal communication with members of the nursing staff. One RN said, “He respects healthcare providers and treats us like professional colleagues.”
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Book Code: MIL1224
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