Domestic violence – the role of the practice nurse

The 25th November was the United Nations designated International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

This day acts as a prompt to ensure that relevant and appropriate information on domestic violence and sexual violence is available in all GP practices, both for the GP and Practice Nurse but also for reception staff and for patients to access every day.

The SAFE Ireland and Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) leaflets enclosed in this edition of Nursing in General Practice provide concise, national referral information on free and confidential domestic violence services and sexual violence services available to women across Ireland. Practice nurses have a critical role in identifying and supporting patients who have experienced or are experiencing domestic and/or sexual violence.

Recognising the indicators and signs of abuse and sexual violence, providing an empathetic and confidential practice environment, being aware of services and supports available (both local and national) and giving appropriate support service information are key to what a Practice Nurse can offer to patients. Supporting a patient in the context of domestic and/or sexual violence includes providing pertinent information on services and resources available and encouraging the patient to seek support and help when she wishes to.

The Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) is the national representative body for Rape Crisis Centre’s (RCCs) in Ireland. SAFE Ireland is the national representative body for women’s frontline domestic violence services in Ireland. Additional free copies of the leaflets and further information are available respectively from SAFE Ireland on 0906 479078 or info@safeireland.ie or from the Rape Crisis Network Ireland on 091 563676 or info@rcni.ie.

Download the leaflet here >> (PDF 0.5Mb)