Abuse and Neglect: Spouse / Partner Abuse

Spouse or partner abuse occurs as emotional, physical, economic, sexual, or combination. This abuse happens most frequently that a male on a female.

Victims of spouse or partner abuse are more likely to abuse alcohol or drugs and to commit suicide.

Attacks escalate in severity and frequency over time.

This kind of abuse usually follow a cycle or pattern: escalating tension, abuse, and then remorse (honeymoon period). In remorse pattern, the abuser apologizes and promises that it will never happen again, professes low for partner, often engages in romantic behaviors, and tension-building phase begins again.

The victim may leave the abuser, and this condition is most dangerous to both of them.

Nursing Interventions:
1. Identify possible victims, use SAFE question:

• Stress/safety: Do you feel safe:
• Afraid/abused: Are you ever afraid in your relationship?
• Friend/family: Are they aware you have been hurt?
• Emergency plan: Do you have a safe place to go and the resources you may need?

2. Refer to the appropriate resources such as police or legal aid, local shelters, and support groups.