A - Domestic Violence Advocacy. A Walk in Her Shoes

Domestic violence remains one of the most significant threats to the health and well-being of women and children in the United States and abroad. During this interactive specialty panel, participants will review essential principles of universal screening for domestic violence for pregnant and non-pregnant women. Information presented will include sample screening questions and tools. Intervention strategies will be identified, such as: providing treatment and support, determining safety, developing an action plan, identifying hospital and community resources and review documentation and reporting requirements. You will hear about how to develop collaborative relationships with existing community help organizations and identifying community resources. 
But you will also have the opportunity and privilege to hear first hand from a survivor about communication techniques that influenced her ability to report her abuse experience and ultimately leave her abusive relationship. How you interact with victims of violence is as important as what you say. Our panelists will discuss strategies needed to understand and support women, whether or not they are ready to leave the situation. A primary goal of this specialty panel is to help nurses better understand what it is like to walk in the shoes of the victim, and assist her on the journey from victim to survivor.