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Case Study: Intimate Partner Violence
Haley Basurto
University of Phoenix
NRP 563
Professor Beard
11/04/2025
, 2
Case Study: Intimate Partner Violence.
According to the recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force
(USPSTF) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), all women of
reproductive age should be routinely screened for intimate partner violence (IPV), regardless of
whether there are visible signs or symptoms. (Miller, 2021). When proceeding with this patient,
there should be an implemented and validated, evidence-based screening tool such as the HITS
(Hurt, Insult, Threaten, Scream) instrument, the WAST (Woman Abuse Screening Tool), or the
STaT (Slapped, Threatened, and Throw) to assess for current or past experiences of IPV in a
confidential and supportive setting. (Miller, 2021).
Begin by ensuring privacy and safety for the patient during the screening process.
Explain the purpose of the screening and emphasize that the information shared will be kept
confidential, except in cases where mandatory reporting laws apply. Using trauma-informed
communication to foster trust and reduce potential distress. (Miller, 2021). If the screening
indicates the presence of IPV, provide immediate support, validate the patient’s experiences, and
then discuss with the patient the available resources and referral options. Documenting findings
accurately and following protocols for further evaluation, safety planning, and, if necessary,
reporting.
Screening Guidelines
Based on the scenario, using the HITS (Hurt, Insult, Threaten, Scream) instrument is
ideal as the primary screening tool. The HITS tool is brief, easy to administer, and has
demonstrated strong reliability and validity in both clinical and community settings for
identifying IPV among women of reproductive age. (De Marchis et al., 2021).
Case Study: Intimate Partner Violence
Haley Basurto
University of Phoenix
NRP 563
Professor Beard
11/04/2025
, 2
Case Study: Intimate Partner Violence.
According to the recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force
(USPSTF) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), all women of
reproductive age should be routinely screened for intimate partner violence (IPV), regardless of
whether there are visible signs or symptoms. (Miller, 2021). When proceeding with this patient,
there should be an implemented and validated, evidence-based screening tool such as the HITS
(Hurt, Insult, Threaten, Scream) instrument, the WAST (Woman Abuse Screening Tool), or the
STaT (Slapped, Threatened, and Throw) to assess for current or past experiences of IPV in a
confidential and supportive setting. (Miller, 2021).
Begin by ensuring privacy and safety for the patient during the screening process.
Explain the purpose of the screening and emphasize that the information shared will be kept
confidential, except in cases where mandatory reporting laws apply. Using trauma-informed
communication to foster trust and reduce potential distress. (Miller, 2021). If the screening
indicates the presence of IPV, provide immediate support, validate the patient’s experiences, and
then discuss with the patient the available resources and referral options. Documenting findings
accurately and following protocols for further evaluation, safety planning, and, if necessary,
reporting.
Screening Guidelines
Based on the scenario, using the HITS (Hurt, Insult, Threaten, Scream) instrument is
ideal as the primary screening tool. The HITS tool is brief, easy to administer, and has
demonstrated strong reliability and validity in both clinical and community settings for
identifying IPV among women of reproductive age. (De Marchis et al., 2021).
