Intimate partner violence, also known as domestic violence, is a leading health problem affecting approximately

The Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing    Vol. 37  No. 2    March/April 2006

By Cynthia K. Stinson, RNC, CNS; Ruthie Robinson, RN, FAEN

ABSTRACT

Intimate partner violence, also known as domestic violence, is a leading health problem affecting approximately 50% of women during the course of their lifetime. A large percentage of the abusers also abuse their children and older adults. Nurses are in a key position to identify and intervene with victims of abuse. However, a major barrier to screening and referral is lack of education. Nurses indicate a lack of education in their formal undergraduate and graduate programs. Therefore, nurses should be introduced to this topic through a 2-hour continuing education program.

AUTHORS

Ms. Stinson is Assistant Professor, Lamar University, Beaumont, Texas. Ms. Robinson is Director, Magnet Program & Clinical Research, CHRISTUS Hospital-St. Elizabeth and CHRISTUS Hospital-St. Mary, Beaumont, Texas.

The authors disclose that they have no significant financial interests in any product or class of products discussed directly or indirectly in this activity, including research support.

Address correspondence to Cynthia K. Stinson, RNC, CNS, Assistant Professor, Lamar University, P. O. Box 10081, Beaumont, TX 77710.

Original text National Institutes of Health (NIH)