A nurse is assisting with the care of a 45-year-old female client who is in the emergency department. Exhibits Click to highlight the findings from the nurses’ notes that indicate partner violence and should be reported to the provider. Nurses’ Notes for Highlighting: Bruises noted in various stages of healing to the face, bilateral arms, and abdomen. Laceration to the left cheek cleansed and covered with an adhesive bandage. Left shoulder cleansed, antiseptic ointment applied, and covered with gauze dressing. Client states, “I fell getting out of the shower and scraped my face and shoulder on the bathroom counter. I tried to catch myself when I fell, and that is how I broke my arm.” Client has been married for 22 years and has two children. Client works part-time and volunteers at a community center. Client is tearful, does not make eye contact, and only speaks when spoken to. Client requests not to notify their partner because they do not want them to have to miss work or worry. Client reports poor appetite and difficulty sleeping.

The findings that indicate possible partner violence and should be reported to the provider include: Bruises noted in various stages of healing to the face, bilateral arms, and abdomen. Client is tearful, does not make eye contact, and only speaks when spoken to. Client reports poor appetite and difficulty sleeping. Client requests not to notify their partner because they do not want them to have to miss work or worry. Client states, “I fell getting out of the shower and scraped my face and shoulder on the bathroom counter. I tried to catch myself when I fell, and that is how I broke my arm.” These signs, particularly the bruising in different healing stages, avoidance of eye contact, emotional distress, reluctance to notify the partner, and vague or inconsistent injury explanations, may indicate potential intimate partner violence. Ensuring proper screening, support, and intervention is crucial in situations like these. The client’s safety and well-being should remain a priority, and reporting these findings to the healthcare provider allows for further assessment and assistance.