October is domestic violence awareness month. It was started in 1987 as was the creation of the National Domestic Violence hotline. In 1989 US Congress passed Public Law 101-112 officially establishing Domestic Violence Awareness month every year in October.
An Easily Hidden Problem
Domestic Violence is often very easily hidden from public view. Often times little is known until someone either speaks up or something like an injury or illness pulls down the curtain.
As Healthcare providers in the skilled nursing world we have the opportunity to truely get to know the residents that we work with. By spending one on one time with them 5 days a week we get to have conversations that open up a glimpse into their life. This is especially true as we progress along further into their recovery.
Through these conversations we might be the one who the person opens up to about an abusive relationship at home. We could very well be one of the first people that they actually open up to. It is imperative that we be an advocate. We need to speak with the social worker in the building so the appropriate steps can be taken to support and protect these residents.
Not only the residents
As Healthcare providers we have interaction with many people throughout our day of work. We interact with nurses, nursing assistants, housekeeping, dietary aides, family members of residents, and even co-workers. We need to pay attention to the world around us. We need to speak up if we suspect something is not right.
When people are silent and look away the abuser is allowed to continue the cycle of abuse.
What can I do?
Luckily working in a Nursing home gives access to a social worker. Social workers have resources that they can use to find the appropriate help and educate the abused. There is also the National Domestic Violence hotline 800-799-7233. You could untimely save a life.
