Domestic violence: the general practitioner's
role
Assess present situation
Let the patient tell you her story. Gather as much information
as possible. Try to include the following:
- History of abuse (include past and present physical, emotional
and/or sexual abuse).
- Attempts by patient to remedy her situation (for example,
through police, courts, separation, refuges, and so on).
- Sources of emotional support.
- Current living situation. Is there some place, other than home,
where she can go to recuperate if it is dangerous for her to return
home?
- Present danger:
- (a) Is abuser verbally threatening her?
- (b) Is abuser frightening friends and
relatives?
- (c) Is abuser threatening to use weapons?
- (d) Is abuser intoxicated?
- (e) Does abuser have criminal record?
- (f) Are the children in danger?