When should intimate partner violence (IPV) screening occur?

A. Only when a client presents with an unexplained injury: Waiting for physical signs misses many victims, especially those experiencing emotional or sexual abuse without visible injuries. B. As soon as the clinician suspects a problem: While suspicion should prompt further evaluation, relying on suspicion alone delays early detection and intervention for many at-risk individuals. C. Once the clinician confirms a history of abuse: Screening is a preventive tool used to detect abuse early; waiting for confirmation defeats the purpose and allows ongoing harm. D. As a routine part of each health care encounter: Routine screening normalizes the process, reduces stigma, and increases the likelihood of identifying and helping those experiencing IPV.