WE MADE A DIFFERENCE
January 2012
A patient came into Christ Medical Center’s Emergency Department after an altercation with her boyfriend, in which he pushed her against a wall, causing her to fall and injure her knee. Upon questioning by the medical staff, the patient disclosed a history of both physical and emotional abuse. The victim also stated that she did not feel safe to return home. A domestic violence resource packet was provided to the patient by the nurse and a referral was made to the Crisis Center Domestic Violence Hospital Advocate. During the patient consult, the CCSS Advocate provided emotional support, in addition to explaining her legal options. An intake for emergency shelter was completed by the Hospital Advocate and a cab transportation voucher was provided by the hospital to transport the victim safely to shelter. Proper documentation was done by medical staff so that the victim could utilize her medical chart for a potential court case and possible financial restitution in the future.
Because of the concern of the medical staff and because proper procedures were followed, this domestic violence victim was able to take significant steps to change her life. She was able to stay in shelter while she healed from her injuries and with the help of CCSS staff, she was able secure a new safe place to live.
November 2011
A patient presented in the ED stating that she was injured after she fell off a ladder. Upon routine domestic violence screening by the CCSS Hospital Advocate, the patient disclosed that her boyfriend had actually pushed her off the ladder. The patient stated that she was afraid the physical abuse was escalating in her relationship with her boyfriend. The Hospital Advocate educated patient about the effects of domestic violence, both on her and her child, helped the patient develop a safety plan, and then offered the patient a follow-up wellness call. Within a month, this same patient presented again with a broken finger. This time, she told staff that her although she was not with him anymore, her boyfriend had found her, pushed her, and broke her finger. The staff contacted the Hospital Advocate who then sat with the patient while she made a police report and provided the patient with information about how to obtain an Order of Protection and get counseling. The proper medical documentation was done and the patient was given a copy of the x-ray for potential evidence in a criminal case.
Because of the routine domestic violence screening and outreach that she received during her first visit, the patient decided to be open and honest with the staff on her second visit.
October 2011
A patient came into Christ Medical Center's Critical Care Unit as a Trauma. The patient had been in an auto accident and would need to undergo several tests to determine the extent of her injuries. The patient appeared very upset and anxious as the different tests were completed. A concerned nurse asked the patient if something in particular was upsetting her. The patient disclosed that in the last month, she had been attacked by her ex-boyfriend. The nurse immediately contacted the CCSS Domestic Violence Hospital Advocate to consult with the patient. During the consult, the victim shared that her ex had been waiting for her in her dark garage as she pulled in. He had grabbed her from her car and began beating her. It became evident that the patient was experiencing PTSD as a result of being in the car accident and from her MRI in the dark enclosed area. The Hospital Advocate educated the victim as to the emotional trauma that domestic violence can have on victims. The patient was very grateful for the care and support she received.
Because of the nurse's sensitivity and awareness of the issue of domestic violence and the proper referral being made, this patient received compassionate and understanding outreach at a very difficult time.