Charlotte Allard discusses the importance of screening patients and educating staff so that nurses are better equipped to provide effective support

Domestic abuse can affect anyone and is recognised as a global problem that results in physical, psychological and economic harm. People who experience domestic violence often attend emergency departments after an incident, but many victims go unnoticed by healthcare professionals. This article identifies and discusses some of the challenges faced by emergency nurses in recognising and managing patients affected by domestic violence. It also discusses how addressing these challenges can improve identification of, and support for, those who have been affected.