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A nurse manager at a community health clinic is presenting an in-service for nurses about assessing clients who have experienced violence. Which of the following statements by a nurse indicates an understanding of the teaching?

a) I always ask about abuse only if the client mentions it first.
b) I document any signs of abuse but don't necessarily report it.
c) I assess for abuse during routine health check-ups.
d) I focus on physical injuries and don't inquire about emotional well-being.

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Final answer:

The correct statement by a nurse that reflects understanding of assessing clients for violence is: 'I assess for abuse during routine health check-ups.' This approach is in line with trauma-informed care, which calls for proactive, comprehensive, and non-judgmental assessments that build trust with clients.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question pertains to how nurses should approach assessing clients who may have experienced violence, including intimate partner violence (IPV). The correct approach for a nurse, as indicated by the teaching, would be to assess for abuse during routine health check-ups. This proactive approach is aligned with trauma-informed care practices, ensuring that the assessment of potential abuse is integrated into standard health evaluations, regardless of whether the client has brought it up first. A nurse should also be comprehensive in this assessment, considering not just physical signs of abuse but also emotional well-being, at the same time respecting clients' confidentiality and building trust.

Therefore, the statement by a nurse indicating an understanding of the teaching is: c) I assess for abuse during routine health check-ups. This reflects an incorporation of an awareness of various forms of abuse (physical, emotional, psychological, financial), the importance of a non-judgmental and supportive approach, and the understanding that many cases of IPV go unreported. The nurse should document any signs of abuse and understand the protocols for reporting, keeping in mind that IPV is a complex issue that requires sensitive handling to ensure the safety and trust of the client.

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