Citation

Melnick DM, Maio RF, Blow FC, Hill EM, Wang SC, Pomerantz R, Kane ML, Graham-Bermann SA, Weber J, Farber MS. J. Trauma 2002; 53(1): 33-37.

Affiliation

Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor 48109, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2002, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

12131386

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Despite the increasing recognition of the problem of domestic violence (DV), it has not been studied in surgical populations. METHODS: Eligible patients underwent screening for a recent history of DV and alcohol abuse (AA). Other demographic, health, and injury-related data were also collected. RESULTS: Of 127 subjects entered into the study, 18% screened positive for DV and 21% screened positive for AA. Of those screening positive for DV, 65% screened positive for AA compared with 12% of those screening negative for DV (p < 0.001.) Screening for DV was recommended by a vast majority of subjects, with only 6% of subjects responding that it was not appropriate. CONCLUSION: Both DV and AA have a high prevalence among female trauma patients admitted to trauma centers. Nearly all subjects recommended screening for DV. Screening for DV should be incorporated into the routine care of female trauma patients.