The Knowledge, Attitudes and Preparedness of Australian Paramedics to Manage Intimate Partner Violence Patients – a Pilot Study

Simon Sawyer · Angela R. Williams · Auston Rotheram · Brett A. Williams

12 citations0/0 files storedAustralasian Journal of Paramedicine

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Intimate Partner and Family Violence Sexual Assault and Victimization Studies Elder Abuse and Neglect

Abstract

Introduction Australian ambulance services are currently attempting to improve their capacity to respond to intimate partner violence (IPV) patients, which is a significant contributing factor to the morbidity and mortality of women. Leading health organisations have called for increased training for frontline health care workers, however there is a paucity of literature on the current preparedness of Australian paramedics. A description of the preparedness of Australian paramedics to manage IPV patients has the potential to inform curricula and practice development. Methods We surveyed a cohort of qualified Australian paramedics using the modified Physician Readiness to Manage Intimate Partner Violence Survey. Results We received 28 completed surveys (16.5% response rate), that revealed most respondents (89.3%) believed they had encountered IPV patients while working as a paramedic, yet only one participant reported comprehensive education or training on the management of such patients. Participants reported low knowledge and preparedness to manage IPV patients. Participant attitudes were poor for self-efficacy, confidence and preparation, and generally neutral for items regarding attitudes toward women and IPV patients. Conclusions This study adds to mounting evidence that paramedics frequently encounter IPV patients, have insufficient education and training, and are not prepared to manage such patients. While the results of this study should be interpreted with caution due to a low response rate and small sample, it appears that Australian paramedics would benefit from targeted educational packages that provide the necessary knowledge to recognise and refer patients, modify inappropriate or insufficient attitudes, and prepare paramedics to effectively manage IPV patients.

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2002The world report on violence and health 2002Health consequences of intimate partner violence 2006Prevalence of intimate partner violence: findings from the WHO multi-country study on women's health and domestic violence 2002World Report on Violence and Health, World Health Organization 2014The health-systems response to violence against women 2006Women Exposed to Intimate Partner Violence 1997MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH EFFECTS OF INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE ON WOMEN AND CHILDREN 2011Intimate Partner Violence and Adverse Health Consequences

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2019The psychometric properties of an intimate partner violence education outcome measure

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