Domestic Abuse Flashcards
What was introduced to make domestic abuse a specific criminal offence?
What else did it do?
Domestic abuse (scotland) act 2018
Covers physical violence as well as psychological and emotional abuse
Recognises that it can occur over time
What is the first thing a clinician can do with regards to domestic abuse?
Stop the abuse and ask the patient about it. Evidence shows a trusted individual asking about abuse increases the chance it is reported.
What are some hallmark signs of domestic abuse?
Low self esteem
Fear, anxiety or sadness in someone’s behaviour
Constant phoning or texting a partner when they are with you
Alcohol abuse
If partner is present, they may do all the talking
Partner may insist on a clinician of a certain sex
FTA or frequent appointments
Repeated injuries and injuries at different stages of healing
Dental / maxillofacial injuries
Poor or unlikely explanations for injury
What is AVDR?
Ask, validate, document, refer
Ask about abuse
Validate that they do not deserve the abuse at all
Document in the patients own words as well as clinical notes, the injuries. Possibly takes photographs too.
Refer - signpost patient to the appropriate services. Scottish domestic abuse helpline!
