When Injuries Speak,
Who Will Listen?

Summary

According to the US Department of Justice, over 35% of women seeking care in the emergency room for violence related injuries were injured by a spouse or boyfriend. However, all too often, the signs of abuse go unnoticed or get overlooked. In 2004, JCAHO instituted new standards for hospitals on how to respond to domestic abuse and neglect that make education on this important subject essential (Standard PC.3.10 on Victims of Abuse). Because patients may be reluctant to admit or to talk about abuse it is particularly important to train staff members, so they can identify abuse and provide proper care, counseling and support.

This new video presents the challenges faced by medical personnel and the solutions available to them when responding to domestic violence. Featuring internationally-known, Dr. Jacquelyn Campbell, Anna D. Wolfe, Chair & Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs at Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, and staff from the University, the program shows their assessment strategies and protocols when dealing with domestic violence survivors. It discusses patterns and the health impact of abuse, issues of immediate safety, dealing with the batterer in the health care setting, and providing support and services to survivors.

Also featured are Dr. Phyllis Sharps, Associate Professor at John Hopkins School of Nursing, Dr. Kim Bullock, Vice Chair of the Emergency Department at Providence Hospital, Washington, DC and Dr. Daniel Sheridan, Assistant Professor at The Johns Hopkins School of Nursing.