Document Type

DNP - Open Access

Award Date

2026

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

Graduate Nursing

First Advisor

Dannica Callies

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy increases a woman’s risk of experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV). Although healthcare visits typically increase during pregnancy, IPV screening is often overlooked, and many women remain unaware of available domestic violence resources. 
Local problem: Globally, women are impacted by IPV, with those living in rural areas facing a higher risk. 
Methods: The Abuse Assessment Screen (AAS) was implemented in a rural women’s health facility to screen patients for IPV. Prior to implementation, healthcare professionals within the facility received education regarding the screening protocol and available resources for patients. 
Interventions: The comfort level of the healthcare professionals discussing IPV was assessed before and after implementation of the protocol using a Likert scale. Data was statistically analyzed using a Wilcoxon signed rank test. 
Results: This project did not show statistical significance. However, the healthcare professions did have increased comfort levels by the end of the implementation, indicating clinical significance. 
Conclusion: Women should be screened for IPV at prenatal appointments. To help increase healthcare professionals’ comfort levels, there should be a clear IPV screening protocol. Facilities should have a list of resources available for patients who screen positive.

Publisher

South Dakota State University

Rights

Copyright © 2026 Madison M. Mitzel

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