Patient Data The nurse goes on to assess the client's risk for lethality. Which 2 factors increase the potential for lethal intimate partner violence?

A. Alcohol and drug use: Substance use by the perpetrator is a significant risk factor for lethal intimate partner violence (IPV). Alcohol and drugs can impair judgment, lower inhibition, and increase aggression, escalating the potential for severe injury or homicide in abusive relationships. Even occasional alcohol use is associated with heightened risk when combined with other abuse factors. B. A gun in the home: Access to firearms dramatically increases the risk of lethality in IPV situations. Studies consistently show that the presence of a gun in the home is one of the strongest predictors of homicide in domestic violence cases, making this a critical factor in lethality assessment and safety planning. C. Previous marriage: Having a prior marriage does not inherently increase the risk of lethal IPV. Risk is more closely linked to the dynamics of the current relationship, frequency and severity of abuse, and access to weapons or substances rather than marital history. D. A history of infidelity: While infidelity can contribute to relationship conflict, it is not a validated predictor of lethality in IPV. Lethal risk assessments focus on behaviors, threats, and environmental factors rather than relational fidelity. E. Unemployment: Unemployment may contribute to financial stress or tension in a relationship but is not a primary risk factor for lethal outcomes in IPV. The focus is on situational and behavioral factors that directly increase the likelihood of severe harm. F. Presence of close family members: Supportive family presence generally serves as a protective factor, offering resources, emotional support, and potential intervention. Close family members may reduce isolation and increase safety options rather than increase lethality risk.