What is the appropriate initial safety screening question when a patient reports intimate-partner violence?

What is the appropriate initial safety screening question when a patient reports intimate-partner violence?

• A. Please describe the injuries you have suffered.
• B. You should come to the clinic now for evaluation.
• C. Do you know where the nearest shelter is?
• D. Are you in a safe place?

Answer: (D)

Assessing immediate safety is the first step when intimate-partner violence is reported. Asking “Are you in a safe place?” directly gauges the person’s current risk and prompts immediate safety planning. It’s simple, nonjudgmental, and respects autonomy, giving a clear yes/no about whether there is urgent danger. If the patient isn’t in a safe place, you can, with consent, help develop a safety plan and connect them with resources; if they are in a safe place, you can continue with supportive options and follow-up. Other options shift focus to injuries, timing for a clinic visit, or shelter resources, which don’t address the immediate safety concern in the moment. This approach reflects trauma-informed care and priority safety assessment.

Assessing immediate safety is the first step when intimate-partner violence is reported. Asking “Are you in a safe place?” directly gauges the person’s current risk and prompts immediate safety planning. It’s simple, nonjudgmental, and respects autonomy, giving a clear yes/no about whether there is urgent danger. If the patient isn’t in a safe place, you can, with consent, help develop a safety plan and connect them with resources; if they are in a safe place, you can continue with supportive options and follow-up. Other options shift focus to injuries, timing for a clinic visit, or shelter resources, which don’t address the immediate safety concern in the moment. This approach reflects trauma-informed care and priority safety assessment.