Clinical competencies of emergency nurses toward violence against women: a delphi study

J Contin Educ Nurs. 2015 Jun;46(6):272-8. doi: 10.3928/00220124-20150518-03.

Abstract

Background: An increasing number of survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) have begun to seek help from hospital emergency departments. This study was conducted to develop a list of requisite clinical competencies for emergency nurses to provide adequate care for women experiencing IPV.

Method: An e-mail survey using the Delphi technique was administered, involving three rounds of questionnaires from 30 participants. Participants were asked to score the importance of each item on a 4-point Likert scale.

Results: The study identified three dimensions, comprising 38 items of competencies related to care for individuals experiencing IPV, including Knowledge (10 items), Attitudes (11 items), and Practice (17 items).

Conclusion: The emergency department is where direct medical treatment and care is provided for those who have experienced IPV. The study findings can provide a reference for the development of in-service educational programs in hospitals and can guide future policy making.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Attitude of Health Personnel
  • Battered Women*
  • Clinical Competence
  • Delphi Technique
  • Education, Nursing, Continuing / organization & administration*
  • Emergency Nursing / education*
  • Emergency Nursing / standards*
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Spouse Abuse / therapy*
  • Staff Development / organization & administration*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Taiwan