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Implementing an Intimate Partner Violence Screening Tool in an Outpatient Clinic
Yatzor, Anna Rae
Yatzor, Anna Rae
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Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant public health concern, particularly among populations with substance use disorder. Despite evidence-based recommendations, systematic IPV screening is often absent in outpatient settings. This project sought to address this gap within a Vermont outpatient opioid treatment clinic. This QI project aimed to implement the E-HITS screening tool, improve provider preparedness to address positive screens, and assist the clinic in integrating a trauma-informed care training module to enhance clinician support of IPV survivors. The RE-AIM framework was utilized to promote the systematic implementation and evaluation of the project’s interventions. The E-HITS tool was integrated into intake workflows in three PDSA cycles over a six-week period. Provider education included an in-service training session and the introduction of an IPV toolkit. IPV prevalence and provider knowledge and confidence were measured before and after implementation. Eleven clients were screened during the intervention period, four of which were positive and distributed equally between genders, marking a significant increase in IPV identification compared to baseline estimations. A trauma-informed care training module was incorporated into the clinic’s mandatory education. Provider confidence in addressing positive screens improved, though overall participation was limited. The project demonstrated the importance of universal IPV screening in a high-risk population, identifying IPV, and fostering trauma-informed care practices. Future efforts should address provider engagement, expand screening to all clients, and evaluate long-term outcomes to sustain and broaden the impact. This project underscores the role of nursing professionals in advancing evidence-based, patient-centered care of vulnerable populations.
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Date
2025-01-01