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Domestic Violence: Efficacy of Health Provider Training in Utah

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  28 June 2012

Charlene S. Allert*
Affiliation:
Domestic Violence Consultant, Bureau of Emergency Medical Services and Bureau of Health Promotion, Department of Health, Utah
Christine Chalkley
Affiliation:
Program Manager, Bureau of Health Promotion, Department of Health, Utah
Jolene R. Whitney
Affiliation:
Director, Systems Resources Program, Bureau of Emergency Medical Services, Utah
Allison Librett
Affiliation:
Health Educator, Bureau of Health Promotion, Department of Health, Utah
*
2337 South 500 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84106 USA Home: (801) 463-7179 Office: (801) 538-7563 Facsimile: (801) 538-7883 E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

The purpose of this project was to improve the identification, treatment, and referral of domestic violence victims by prehospital care providers (Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and paramedics) and emergency department personnel. The training focused on the definition of domestic violence, procedures to use when questioning patients about abuse, Utah's mandatory reporting law, and the referral of victims to community resources. While the training did improve the participant's knowledge concerning referral options and the law, health care providers still did not believe that domestic violence was a problem in their community. Although providers felt confident asking questions about abuse, the providers did not question patients unless they suspected domestic violence was the cause of the injury. Further training needs to be offered to staff to encourage regular screening for all adult patients.

Type
Original Research
Copyright
Copyright © World Association for Disaster and Emergency Medicine 1997

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