Domestic Violence
Situations may arise in your office where you suspect that a patient may be the victim of domestic violence .
Abusers are skilled at using power and control over their victims , which can make leaving the situation both difficult and dangerous . One of the best ways to help somebody in a potentially abusive situation is to listen to them and support them .
If you are uncomfortable asking your patient about their relationship , you can contact the local domestic violence program in your community to discuss the situation at https :// www . pcadv . org / find-help / findyour-local-domestic-violence-program /. This may be a safe way to share your concerns for that person ’ s safety .
If you witness or hear a violent incident in your office , it is important not to intervene on your own . If somebody is in immediate danger , call 911 . Intervening can put victims and bystanders at risk . Understand and respect that there are various reasons that not all victims will want the police involved in their situation , but if somebody ’ s life is at risk , calling 911 is the best option . https :// www . pcadv . org /
2024