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Abstract
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AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: This study's objective is to describe the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of nurses and midwives who have attended to women who suffered violence. This study further analyses the possible changes of attitude that have occurred over the past 5 years.
BACKGROUND: Gender violence or violence against women is the largest problem with regard to public health and violated human rights all over the world. In Italy, it is estimated that 31.5 % of women suffer physical or sexual violence during their life. Healthcare operators play a crucial role in recognizing the signs of the violence suffered when taking care of victims DESIGN: A cross-sectional study was conducted.
METHODS: A questionnaire was administered; this was used in a previous survey of a convenience sample of 51 nurses and midwives who work in an Emergency Room (ER) or in an Obstetrics Emergency Room and Gynaecologic ward.
RESULTS: Of the respondents, 51 (80.4 %) have taken care of women who suffered violence, and 25 (49%) believe they can detect violence. The relational/communicative approach presents the most difficulty, and all the operators believe they need more knowledge. The number of operators who suggest women be observed in an ER and file a complaint or who primarily consider listening to women has decreased. A tendency to "blame" women, although decreasing, persists; it is higher among male nurses and, in general, among male operators.
CONCLUSION: Knowledge of this issue has not been completely recognized among operators despite training and the emergence of the phenomenon in the mass media. Difficulties in receiving and in relational procedures continue to exist, in addition to "blaming" the woman. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Language: en |