Case studies in partner violence

Interpersonal violence and abuse, especially between relatives and domestic partners, are leading causes of morbidity and mortality Family physicians and other professionals who provide primary care health services must deal with acute presentations and chronic sequelae of this epidemic. Many victim s of abuse hesitate to seek help. while those who batter are often difficul t to identify. Medical management of patients in abusive relationships can be frustrating. Evaluating injury patterns, understanding factors that incr ease the risk for violence and making use of specific interview questions a nd techniques will aid family physicians in the difficult task of assessing and managing patients living in abusive partnerships.