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Article: Domestic violence screening.(Women's Health Adviser)
- Article from:
- OB GYN News
- Article date:
- April 1, 2004
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2004 International Medical News Group. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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Domestic violence exacts a tremendous toll on women. Every year nearly 5 million American women experience it. Up to 20% of emergency department visits by women are related to domestic violence.
Because of its prevalence, and because domestic violence crosses every demographic boundary, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends a brief domestic violence screening for every patient.
Signs and symptoms
It's unlikely that the ob.gyn. will encounter abuse injuries that demand immediate treatment. Bruises, scars, or other signs of trauma that don't fit with the patient's explanation should be red flags. Women may also ...