Domestic Violence #2 The patient will make a realistic assessment of her situation and become familiar with her legal rights 1. Tell the patient about the prevalence of domestic violence. RATIONALE: Telling the woman that violence in the home is not uncommon enables her to realize that her situation is not unique and that she isn't alone in her experiences 2. Discuss the safety of remaining at home and emphasize the need for a workable safety plan in response to the recurrence of abuse. RATIONALE: Many women choose to remain with the abuser because of fear, of failure, fear of physical harm or other retaliation, lack of resources and self-esteem and pressure from significant others. For some women leaving is more dangerous than staying because many women are killed by their abusers after they have left the abusive situation 3. If the patient has children, ask whether the children are also being abused. RATIONALE: Action must be taken to report child abuse. Discussion about the effects of violence on children can mobilize the woman to do something about the situation. 4. Discuss legal options such as temporary restraining order (TRO) that can be used to protect the woman from the abuse RATIONALE: Women need to know that they can obtain a TROfor 7 to 10 days and then have a hearing for a permanent restraining order
Domestic Violence #2 The patient will make a realistic assessment of her situation and become familiar with her legal rights 1. Tell the patient about the prevalence of domestic violence. RATIONALE: Telling the woman that violence in the home is not uncommon enables her to realize that her situation is not unique and that she isn't alone in her experiences 2. Discuss the safety of remaining at home and emphasize the need for a workable safety plan in response to the recurrence of abuse. RATIONALE: Many women choose to remain with the abuser because of fear, of failure, fear of physical harm or other retaliation, lack of resources and self-esteem and pressure from significant others. For some women leaving is more dangerous than staying because many women are killed by their abusers after they have left the abusive situation 3. If the patient has children, ask whether the children are also being abused. RATIONALE: Action must be taken to report child abuse. Discussion about the effects of violence on children can mobilize the woman to do something about the situation. 4. Discuss legal options such as temporary restraining order (TRO) that can be used to protect the woman from the abuse RATIONALE: Women need to know that they can obtain a TROfor 7 to 10 days and then have a hearing for a permanent restraining order