Question

A nurse is conducting a home visit with a client who reports a history of partner violence. The nurse should identify that which of the following findings places the client at greatest risk for partner violence.

a. Supportive social network

b. Employment stability

c. Substance use by the partner

d. High self-esteem

Answer 1

Substance use by a partner is a critical factor that increases the risk of intimate partner violence (IPV), making it the most concerning finding for a nurse assessing a client's risk.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the context of intimate partner violence (IPV), the nurse should recognize that substance use by the partner places the client at a greater risk for partner violence. Research indicates that there is a heightened frequency of IPV incidents involving drugs or alcohol, with nearly half of IPV instances involving these substances. Substance use can impair judgement, reduce inhibitions, and lead to increased aggression, therefore increasing the risk of violence. In contrast, factors such as a supportive social network, employment stability, and high self-esteem are generally protective and mitigate the risk of violence. Communities and healthcare providers aim to support survivors through trauma-informed care, social support, and maintaining a non-judgmental atmosphere, which are critical for ensuring safety and aiding recovery from IPV.

Answer 2

Substance use by the partner is the factor identified during a home visit that puts a client at the greatest risk for partner violence (option c).

Step-by-step explanation:

During a home visit, a nurse should identify substance use by the partner as the finding that places a client at the greatest risk for partner violence. Options such as supportive social network, employment stability, and high self-esteem are typically associated with a lower risk of IPV and are considered protective factors. Substance abuse by the partner is known to correlate with a higher instance of IPV. Indeed, research indicates that nearly half of IPV cases involve drugs or alcohol, directly linking substance use with increased IPV occurrence.

Hence, the answer is option c.