The experiences of women who survived an attempt on their lives by an intimate partner represented a wide spectrum of previous violence and control issues in the relationship

摘要

The qualitative study by Nicolaidis et al was conducted by expert clinicians in the field of intimate partner violence. Data collection and analysis methods were appropriate for the research question. A convenience sample of 30 urban women is justified for a qualitative study of this nature, although some women who reside in suburbia, towns, and farms also experience intimate partner violence and attempted and actual homicide.The underlying components of intimate partner violence are power and control. An abusive partner purposefully uses power tactics to control the victim and still maintain the relationship. Although most women in the study described tactics of power and control, some were unaware of their partner's power and control until after the attempted homicide.Contrary to the belief that only women with high Danger Assessment scores are at risk of homicide, this study found that women with Danger Assessment scores of 3-14 had survived attempted homicides. Nicolaidis et al acknowledge that the study did not include same sex couples or adequate representation of Hispanic, Asian, and Native American women.All women, including those who are pregnant and regardless of their setting and socioeconomic status, should be assessed for intimate partner violence. If intimate partner violence is suspected or confirmed, the Danger Assessment tool should be used to assess the potential for homicide. 41% of women who have been abused saw a healthcare provider within 1 year before their deaths.' Each contact a nurse has with a woman is an opportunity to assess for intimate partner violence and intervene. A nurse should counsel any woman with a physically abusive or controlling partner about the risk of homicide, especially at the time of a relationship change, regardless of the severity of prior violence or whether or not the relationship is ending because of violence. Interventions include increasing awareness of physical injury or risk of death, development of a safety plan, and providing information on the availability of legal and community resources on intimate partner violence.