Oral Health Care Providers' Knowledge and Attitudes About Intimate Partner Violence.

Introduction

Given its high prevalence, intimate partner violence (IPV) is an important public health issue. Oral health care providers (OHCPs) often encounter victims of intimate partner abuse in dental settings, but there is a lack of existing literature regarding OHCPs' attitudes toward and knowledge of IPV.Purpose: This study assessed OHCPs' knowledge and perception of preparedness in assessment and management for IPV.

Methods

Using a validated survey tool called PREMIS, this study assessed a convenience sample of OHCPs' knowledge and attitudes about the identification, assessment, and management of IPV.

Results

The survey results obtained from 117 OHCPs indicated 92% had had some form of IPV education, but 45% felt they did not have sufficient training to assist individuals who were victims of IPV. Other areas in which the respondents felt ill-prepared included identifying victims of IPV (61.5%) and appropriate referrals to social services (64%). Only 7 to 9% screen new patients or those with abuse indicators on the history or exam.

Conclusion

This study explored OHCPs' attitudes and knowledge of IPV and provided insight into IPV screening practices and management in dental care settings. Because injuries to the head, neck, and face are very common in IPV, OHCPs have the opportunity to play a key role in managing "the silent epidemic" of domestic violence by routinely including screening of new and returning patients and having a referral resources available.