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eISSN: 2572-8474

Nursing & Care Open Access Journal

Research Article Volume 10 Issue 3

Comprehensive nursing care for women victim of domestic violence

C Muñiz de Alfaro,1 Heynis Yizeth Peralta Cruz2

1Specialized University of the Americas (UDELAS), Panama
2Hispanoamerican University of Panama, Panama

Correspondence: C Muñiz de Alfaro, Specialized University of the Americas (UDELAS), Panama, Central America

Received: September 02, 2024 | Published: September 23, 2024

Citation: Alfaro CM, Cruz HYP. Comprehensive nursing care for women victim of domestic violence.Nurse Care Open Acces J. 2024;10(3):110-113. DOI: 10.15406/ncoaj.2024.10.00300

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Abstract

This article takes place by recognizing that the role of nursing staff becomes vital, not only as providers of physical health care, but as pillars of emotional and psychological support (domestic violence).

Objective: Recognize the intervention of comprehensive nursing care for women victims of domestic violence who attend the Fundación Mujer en Positivo located in the district of Betania -Panama City for the period 2023. Methodology: The research was supported by a quantitative research, non-experimental design, field type and descriptive level; the population and sample of the study were made up of fifteen (15) women participating in the Fundación Mujer en Positivo, so the sample applied was of a selective, intentional non-probabilistic type.

Results: The study showed that 60% of the sample had been sexually violated, while 40% responded otherwise; For its part, 100% that she has been psychologically abused; This is why the sample considers 100% that the nursing staff should have a specific protocol for action in the event of suspicion or confirmation of a case of domestic violence in the participants.

Conclusion: Domestic violence affects the participants not only physically but also psychologically, economically and socially, evidencing the need for a comprehensive care approach that addresses all these aspects to achieve a complete recovery; Hence, the consensus on the importance of nursing staff creating a safe and trustworthy environment for victims highlights the fundamental role of nursing in establishing the trust and emotional support necessary for recovery.

Keywords: comprehensive care, nursing, women, victim, domestic violence.

Introduction

Domestic violence is a devastating phenomenon that erodes the very core of one’s being and reverberates through the social fabric with deep-rooted consequences. Domestic violence not only inflicts physical wounds, but also leaves emotional and psychological scars, affecting women’s self-esteem, autonomy, and ability to function in society.1 The magnitude of this problem extends beyond individuals, affecting families and communities, perpetuating cycles of violence and social vulnerability. Domestic violence against women is a complex phenomenon, fueled by an amalgam of socioeconomic, cultural and personal factors that intertwine to create an environment where abuse can proliferate. These factors include, but are not limited to, gender inequalities, poverty, lack of education and limited access to resources and support. Guidance and education in this area are revealed as powerful tools to combat domestic violence, empowering women to recognize the signs of abuse and seek help. Prevention, through education and support, is essential to change the narratives that normalize violence and promote safe environments for women. In this scenario, nursing staff takes on a crucial role, serving as a bridge between women affected by domestic violence and the path to recovery. This staff not only attends to the physical needs arising from abuse, but also offers emotional and psychological support, essential for healing. Nursing, with its holistic approach, addresses the trauma of domestic violence in all its facets, providing a safe space for women to express their fears, hopes and dreams of a future free of violence. The interaction between the nurse and the participants of the Positive Women Foundation highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to addressing domestic violence. The collaboration between nurses, psychologists, social workers and the judicial system becomes a synergy that enhances the effectiveness of the interventions and support provided. This multidisciplinary cooperation not only ensures comprehensive care for women, but also contributes to building a more informed and resilient society in the face of domestic violence. The work of these staff in Betania lights the way to hope and recovery, demonstrating that, with the right support, it is possible to overcome the shadows of abuse and move towards a future of empowerment and well-being. However, the interaction between the participants of the Fundación Mujer en Positivo and the nursing staff highlights a reality where emotional support and accompaniment are as crucial as medical care.2 This comprehensive approach not only addresses physical wounds, but also offers a healing route for the invisible wounds that domestic violence leaves in women's souls. The work of the nurse transcends the traditional limits of nursing, becoming agents of social change that promote residency and autonomy among survivors. Before continuing, and in continuity with what has been previously stated, it is imperative to emphasize the theoretical background in order to substantiate the study, which refers to the review and analysis of previous studies, publications and theories related to the research topic.

In this regard, Mendoza,3 in his special degree work entitled “Knowledge and attitudes of nursing staff on gender violence”. In this regard, the researcher intends to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of nursing staff in Mexico on gender violence, specifically intimate partner violence. The study seeks to understand the perspective of nursing staff on this social problem, as well as their ability to identify, assess and provide care to victims. A descriptive, cross-sectional and correlational study was conducted with a sample of 260 nurses working in different hospitals in the state of Veracruz, Mexico. A self-administered questionnaire was used consisting of two sections: the first assessed knowledge about gender violence and the second explored attitudes towards victims. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and correlation analysis. The results of the study indicated that nursing staff had a poor knowledge of gender-based violence. Only 40% of nurses correctly identified all forms of intimate partner violence. Attitudes towards victims were also worrying: 20% of nurses considered intimate partner violence to be a private problem and 10% believed that women who suffered from it were responsible for it. In this regard, the study revealed the need to strengthen the training of nursing staff in matters of gender violence. Educational strategies are required that allow nurses to identify and understand this social problem, as well as develop the skills necessary to provide adequate care to victims.

Once the context of the situation has been framed throughout the preceding paragraphs, which provides knowledge of the present topic "comprehensive nursing care for women victims of domestic violence who attend the Fundación Mujer en Positivo located in the Betania district - Panama City for the period 2023", it is imperative to recognize that there are currently significant challenges when addressing cases of domestic violence. One of the main obstacles is the early and accurate identification of domestic abuse, given the complexity of its manifestations and the possible silence or minimisation of experiences by victims. This challenge is compounded by limited resources and specific training to adequately deal with the multifaceted consequences of domestic violence, which include not only physical harm but also deep psychological trauma. In addition, nurses must navigate the delicate balance between offering empathetic support and maintaining objectivity in medical care, which is essential to fostering an environment of trust and safety that encourages women to share their experiences. This challenge is complemented by the need to coordinate with other entities and professionals to ensure a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to the treatment and support of survivors, which requires effective communication and constant collaboration.

In this sense, the following question arises:

How do women victims of domestic violence determine the intervention of nursing staff at the Positive Women Foundation located in the Betania district - Panama City for the period 2023?

Now, once the problem has been emphasized, it is imperative to stress that the justification of this study lies in the urgent need to recognize and value the fundamental role played by nursing staff in cases of domestic violence among participants of the Fundación Mujer en Positivo, in the Betania district, Panama City. Indeed, domestic violence constitutes a public health crisis of alarming magnitude that affects not only the physical and emotional integrity of women, but also their social and economic well-being. The intervention of nursing staff, with their direct and understanding approach to those affected, is crucial to offering an adequate response that is not only limited to the immediate care of physical injuries, but also addresses the psychological and emotional impact of abuse. The importance of this research is therefore manifested in its ability to deepen the understanding of the role of nursing in the context of domestic violence, illuminating current practices and areas of opportunity to improve care and support for victims. By comprehensively understanding how nursing staff can positively impact the recovery and empowerment of women affected by domestic violence, this study highlights the need to develop specific policies and training programs that strengthen their competencies in this area.

Methodology

The general objective of this study is to recognize the intervention of comprehensive nursing care for women victims of domestic violence who attend the Positive Woman Foundation located in the Betania district - Panama City for the period 2023. In continuity, the specific objectives correspond to: 1. To mention the situation faced by the participants of the Positive Women Foundation regarding domestic violence and its impact on a personal and social level; 2. To know the factors that promote domestic violence in women and the importance of guidance to deal with these cases; 3. To recognize the role of nursing staff in cases of domestic violence presented by participants of the Positive Women Foundation. Based on this premise, the study corresponded to the quantitative modality, non-experimental design, field type and descriptive level. Regarding the study population, it was made up of fifteen (15) women participating in the Positive Woman Foundation located in the Betania district - Panama City ; the sample applied is of an intentional selective non-probabilistic type, because a group of women who have presented Domestic Violence were selected.4 In this narrative order, the study variables gave rise to: domestic violence, nursing interventions, well-being of the participants, satisfaction with the care received and barriers to access to care. In accordance with the problem raised, the survey was used as a data collection technique with the instrumental support of the questionnaire. To this end, the data collection and analysis procedure took place under the following activities: 1. Staff training; 2. Data collection; 3. Data recording and storage; 4. Preliminary data analysis; 5. Interpretation of results; 6. Preparation of report and recommendations. The ethical principles that govern the current research are aimed at protecting the dignity, rights and well-being of the participants. Firstly, the confidentiality and anonymity of the women involved are guaranteed; no personal or sensitive information will be disclosed without their explicit consent. Through the informed consent of each participant, the objectives of the study, the procedures involved, and their right to withdraw at any time without consequences is clearly explained. In addition, special sensitivity to the emotional and psychological context of women who have experienced domestic violence is taken into account. Research staff is trained to interact with them in an empathetic and non-invasive manner, and psychological support is available during and after participation in the study. The research is designed in such a way as to minimize any possible discomfort and inconvenience.

Results

According to Namakforoosh,5 data analysis and interpretation refers to the manipulation of facts and numbers to achieve certain information in a technique that will help the researcher make an appropriate decision.

  1. Are you aware of domestic violence? (Table 1)

Options

Answers

 

 

No.

%

Totals

15

100%

Yeah

11

73%

No

4

27%

Table 1 Domestic violence awareness
Source: Comprehensive nursing care for women victims of domestic violence who attend the positive women foundation. Panama 2023.

(Figure 1) 73% of respondents said they were aware of domestic violence, while 27% said they were not. Undoubtedly, the majority of respondents demonstrate significant awareness of domestic violence, indicating a possible increase in awareness in the community; however, there is still a considerable segment that does not recognize or is unaware of this problem, which underlines the need to intensify information and education campaigns.

Figure 1 Domestic violence awareness.

  1. Have you been yelled at, hit, subjected to obscene words, threatened, locked up, or lacked money and food?

Options

Answers

 

 

No.

%

Totals

15

100%

Yeah

14

93%

No

1

7%

Table 2 Screams, blows, obscene words, threats, confinement, lack of money and food
Source: Comprehensive nursing care for women victims of domestic violence who attend the positive women foundation. Panama 2023.

(Figure 2) 93% of respondents said they had been yelled at, hit, insulted, threatened, locked up, or deprived of money and food, while 7% said the opposite . In this regard, the overwhelming majority of the population surveyed had experienced various forms of abuse, highlighting an alarming prevalence of domestic violence; this underlines an urgent call to action to strengthen protection and support mechanisms for victims.

Figure 2 Screams, blows, obscene words, threats, confinement, lack of money and food.

  1. Have you been physically abused? (Table 3)

Options

Answers

 

 

No.

%

Totals

15

100%

Yeah

10

67%

No

5

33%

Table 3 Physical abuse
Source: Comprehensive nursing care for women victims of domestic violence who attend the positive women foundation. Panama 2023.

(Figure 3) According to Table 3, 67% of respondents said they have been physically abused, while 33% said the opposite . Undoubtedly, the majority of survey participants have experienced physical abuse, highlighting the urgent need to strengthen interventions and support for victims of domestic violence to address this prevalent form of abuse.

Figure 3 Physical abuse.

  1. Do you think it is essential that nursing staff be trained in the early detection of signs of domestic violence in participants of the Positive Women Foundation? (Table 4)

Options

Answers

 

 

No.

%

Totals

15

100%

Yeah

15

100%

No

0

0%

Table 4 Early detection of signs of domestic violence by nursing staff
Source: Comprehensive nursing care for women victims of domestic violence who attend the positive women foundation. Panama 2023.

(Figure 4) Respondents 100% agreed that it is essential for nursing staff to be trained in the early detection of signs of domestic violence in participants of the Positive Women Foundation. In this regard, the unanimity of respondents underlines the critical importance of nursing staff having the skills to identify early indicators of domestic violence, emphasizing the vital need for specific training in this area to improve intervention and support for victims.

Figure 4 Early detection of signs of domestic violence by nursing staff.

  1. Do you think that nursing staff should collaborate directly with other professionals (such as social workers, psychologists and lawyers) to provide comprehensive care to participants affected by domestic violence? (Table 5)

Options

Answers

 

 

No.

%

Totals

15

100%

Yeah

15

100%

No

0

0%

Table 5 Comprehensive care for participants affected by domestic violence
Source: Comprehensive nursing care for women victims of domestic violence who attend the positive women foundation. Panama 2023.

(Figure 5) According to Table 5, 100% of respondents said that nursing staff should collaborate directly with other professionals (such as social workers, psychologists, and lawyers) to provide comprehensive care to participants affected by domestic violence. The totality of responses highlights the consensus on the need for multidisciplinary collaboration in which nursing staff work together with other professionals to provide comprehensive and appropriate care to victims of domestic violence, highlighting the importance of an integrated approach in the care of these participants.

Figure 5 Comprehensive care for participants affected by domestic violence.

Discussion

The discussion of the results of the study on Comprehensive Nursing Care for Women Victims of Domestic Violence at the Fundación Mujer en Positivo highlights several crucial points in relation to the perception and management of this problem. The high percentage (93%) of women who have experienced verbal and physical violence highlights an alarming reality and the urgent need for more effective approaches in the context of public health and human rights. This data shows the critical importance of the intervention of nursing staff, not only in early detection, where 100% of the participants recognize its relevance, but also in ongoing training to improve skills in identifying and managing domestic violence. Interdisciplinary collaboration is highlighted as an essential component for comprehensive care, combining resources from nursing, social work, psychology, and legal assistance. This aligns with findings from similar studies that emphasize the importance of a holistic approach to addressing victims’ needs, ensuring that interventions are not only timely but also culturally competent and psychologically appropriate. Compared to other recent studies, such as that of Smith et al.6 which documents the effectiveness of specific training programs for health personnel in identifying domestic violence, our study reinforces the need for such training as an essential part of nursing practice. On the other hand, the study by Johnson and Lee7 on the effectiveness of multidisciplinary interventions for women in situations of violence highlights similarities with our findings, underlining the value of integrating legal and mental health services into care protocols. In both cases, the studies underline the gap between knowledge and effective practice in the field of domestic violence and the importance of overcoming these challenges through education and interdisciplinary collaboration. The need to strengthen social and professional support networks, as demonstrated by the relatively high but insufficient knowledge (73%) about domestic violence in our study, suggests that there is still much work to be done in raising awareness and training at the community level.

Conclusion and recommendations

The research on Comprehensive Nursing Care for Women Victims of Domestic Violence at the Fundación Mujer en Positivo reflects crucial points about the role of nursing staff and the current situation of affected women. This study has allowed us to deepen our understanding of the dynamics of domestic violence and the institutional response needed to address it effectively. In this sense, the following is evident:

  1. Although there is a considerable level of awareness about domestic violence, there is still a significant fraction of the population that is not fully informed about this issue. This finding highlights the importance of intensifying education and awareness campaigns to ensure that more and more people understand the seriousness and implications of domestic violence, both at a personal and social level.
  2. The need for specific training in early detection of domestic violence for nursing staff has been unanimously recognised as essential. This training must be in-depth and ongoing, ensuring that nursing staff are equipped with the skills necessary to identify and respond to signs of violence early and effectively.
  3. The high incidence of physical and psychological violence among participants highlights the urgency of implementing and strengthening interventions specifically targeting victims of domestic violence. Nursing staff, due to their frequent and direct contact with victims, play a crucial role in the detection and management of these cases.

Acknowledgments

None.

Conflicts of interest

The author declares that there are no conflicts of interest.

References

  1. Castillo J. Power dynamics and domestic violence: towards a comprehensive intervention approach. Latin Am J Violence Stud. 2021;7(2):58–72.
  2. Rodríguez A. Impact of domestic violence on the psychosocial health of victims. J Social Psychol Personality. 2019;35(2):89–104.
  3. Mendoza F, Eugenia M. Knowledge and attitudes of nursing staff regarding gender violence. Perinatol Reprod Hum. 2006;20(4):69–79.
  4. Pérez D. Research methodology. Mexico: McGraw Hill Publishing. 2021.
  5. Namakforoosh K. Research methodology. Caracas -Venezuela. Editorial Larense CA. 2016.
  6. Smith J, Taylor,E, Williams K. Enhancing domestic violence identification in healthcare settings: a training program evaluation. J Commun Health Nurs. 2023;40(2):112–127.
  7. Johnson M, Lee A. Multidisciplinary approaches to domestic violence: an integration of legal and mental health services. J Fam Violence. 2023;38(4):401–418.
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