Emergency department staff responses to a protocol of case for abused women

While there is increasing recognition by health care providers of the need to identify and intervene in cases of partner abuse, there has been little evaluation of the interventions that have been implemented. This article do cuments emergency department staff responses to a five-step protocol of car e on partner abuse implemented in a public hospital. It draws on in-depth i nterviews with a range of emergency department staff members, undertaken as part of the project's process evaluation. Findings suggest protocol traini ng provided staff members with an opportunity to gain a greater awareness a nd understanding of partner abuse. Protocol use improved and consolidated e xisting practices; however, staff members were concerned about screening al l women for abuse and highlighted areas in which further support and resour ces are required. Taking these factors into account may assist the appropri ate and effective introduction of such protocols in other health care setti ngs.