Alicia J Long1, Atoosa Golfar2, David M Olson3. 1. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB. Electronic address: ajlong@ualberta.ca. 2. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB. 3. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB; Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB; Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This study sought to understand how obstetrician gynaecologists (OB/GYNs) in Edmonton, Alberta screen prenatal patients for intimate partner violence (IPV). It also aimed to explore attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions regarding IPV and identify barriers to screening for IPV. Institutional protocols, resources, and support available to clinicians and patients were also reviewed. METHODS: All Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada-certified OB/GYNs practicing general obstetrics in Edmonton were identified and were mailed letters and electronic questionnaires with two follow-up letters or emails at 2-week intervals. Personal and clinical practice demographic information was collected. Physicians' perceptions, screening practices, and barriers to screening were identified. Responses were collected, stored, and analyzed using a secure online database, Research Electronic Data Capture Database; all responses were completely anonymous. RESULTS: Of 58 physicians surveyed, 49 completed questionnaires (84% response rate). A total of 33% of respondents either never or rarely screened women for IPV during prenatal visits, 69% either never or rarely screened for childhood abuse, 94% did not have a screening protocol, and 77% did not have written materials to provide to patients. Multiple barriers were identified. A total of 94% of OB/GYNs believed that they were inadequately screening for IPV. CONCLUSION: Screening of pregnant women for IPV and a history of abuse is suboptimal. There are multiple barriers (cultural, societal, economic, and institutional) that prevent women from being screened for IPV and receiving appropriate support services.
OBJECTIVE: This study sought to understand how obstetrician gynaecologists (OB/GYNs) in Edmonton, Alberta screen prenatal patients for intimate partner violence (IPV). It also aimed to explore attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions regarding IPV and identify barriers to screening for IPV. Institutional protocols, resources, and support available to clinicians and patients were also reviewed. METHODS: All Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada-certified OB/GYNs practicing general obstetrics in Edmonton were identified and were mailed letters and electronic questionnaires with two follow-up letters or emails at 2-week intervals. Personal and clinical practice demographic information was collected. Physicians' perceptions, screening practices, and barriers to screening were identified. Responses were collected, stored, and analyzed using a secure online database, Research Electronic Data Capture Database; all responses were completely anonymous. RESULTS: Of 58 physicians surveyed, 49 completed questionnaires (84% response rate). A total of 33% of respondents either never or rarely screened women for IPV during prenatal visits, 69% either never or rarely screened for childhood abuse, 94% did not have a screening protocol, and 77% did not have written materials to provide to patients. Multiple barriers were identified. A total of 94% of OB/GYNs believed that they were inadequately screening for IPV. CONCLUSION: Screening of pregnant women for IPV and a history of abuse is suboptimal. There are multiple barriers (cultural, societal, economic, and institutional) that prevent women from being screened for IPV and receiving appropriate support services.