An exploratory study of clinician perspectives on family and domestic violence screening in the emergency department of an Australian metropolitan public hospital

Background: Alarming mortality rates highlight the need to strengthen responses to family and domestic violence (FDV). Hospital Emergency Department (ED) clinicians are uniquely positioned to identify patients experiencing FDV. However, routine FDV screening is not common practice in Australian EDs. This study sought to explore perspectives on FDV screening among ED clinicians at a Western Australian metropolitan hospital. 

Methods: Mixed methods were utilised including a survey and interviews with ED clinicians examining knowledge, attitudes and confidence pertaining to FDV identification and management. Descriptive statistics were generated, and interview data were thematically analysed. 

Results: Survey (n = 26) and interview (n = 8) data demonstrated sound FDV knowledge among clinicians and a willingness to help patients experiencing FDV. Confidence to identify FDV in ED patients and offer support was varied. Barriers, such as time limitations, lack of privacy, patient reluctance to disclose and a lack of screening tools and guidelines, impeded responses to FDV. Clinicians were favourable of routine FDV screening, supported by regular training, screening tools, guidelines and protocols, and resourcing. 

Conclusions: Findings support introduction of FDV screening policies for patients in a metropolitan ED and highlight resourcing and other requirements needed to ensure optimal implementation of routine FDV screening.