The Core Curriculum for Medical Surgical Nursing (6th Edition) has been updated with several new chapters, including Chapter 24, “Victims of Intimate/Domestic Partner Violence and Human Trafficking”. Authored by Emerald Bilbrew, DNP, MSN, BSN, RN, CMSRN, the chapter explains the signs and symptoms of intimate/domestic partner violence (IPV) and human trafficking and the reporting responsibilities of medical-surgical nurses when they suspect a patient is a victim of IPV or human trafficking.

Chapter 24 also delves into the screening process, tools, and assessments for IPV and human trafficking. Additionally, it details the proper nursing interventions for suspected victims and the circumstances under which these patients are at increased risk.

It is important for medical-surgical nurses to understand how to identify and care for patients who are victims of IPV or human trafficking. “Unless someone is specially trained like I was in public health, many nurses do not know how to recognize human trafficking symptoms. When they present for medical care, which is not often, this may be the only opportunity to rescue them,” Bilbrew says. “COVID-19 increased the isolation for these victims and increased the number of victims since many public spaces were restricted.”

Bilbrew adds, “It is also important that every nurse understands how to screen for and recognize IPV and offer assistance. Many people lose their lives, including children, when they are in these situations. As nurses, we need to be able to identify and assist those who need us, regardless of what type of nurse we are.”

Among other things, Chapter 24 emphasizes the importance of keeping abreast of state laws governing the reporting of IPV and human trafficking. Further, it highlights the need for nurses to let victims know that help is available, even if they are not ready to accept it.

IPV and human trafficking “can happen to anyone,” Bilbrew says. “It doesn't matter your race or wealth — anyone can be a victim. As a nurse, you must holistically care for your client, and that includes their safety when they leave their appointment or hospital stay.”

Citation: Bilbrew, E. (2023). Victims of intimate/domestic partner violence and human trafficking. In W.G. Woodall (Ed.); H. Craven & J. Kennedy (Assoc. Eds.), Core curriculum for medical-surgical nursing (6th ed.) (pp. 557-574). Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses.

For more information and to purchase the Core Curriculum for Medical Surgical Nursing (6th Edition), visit the AMSN website.