Effective screening for domestic violence in the inpatient obstetric setting

Domestic violence is an endemic problem in the United States. We report on the results of an organizational intervention designed to increase detection and intervention in cases of domestic violence among obstetric patients admitted to the hospital. Providers underwent a 2-hour educational session that was accompanied by changes in hospital policy and medical records that facilitated universal screening. Significant increases in provider knowledge and persistently elevated levels of screening long after the intervention are documented in this program evaluation. We conclude that domestic violence screening behavior can be increased through provider education and organizational change.