THE ABCDE MODEL OF INTERVENTION

A - Ask to be alone. This is to ensure that the survivor is able to disclose if they choose to do so. A disclosure is highly unlikely if health staff attend to the survivor with their partner present.

B - Believe the disclosure. No matter how unbelievable or bizarre the story, believe it as survivors rarely lie about the violence they have survived, if anything they minimise it.

C - Call in resources. Be aware of agencies who can assist the survivor for example women’s refuges, domestic violence counsellors, sexual assault referral centres.

D - Document history and injuries. This is vitally important as this documentation may be used in court to support a survivor’s case.

E - Ensure safety. The safety of the survivor and any children involved is paramount. The health worker should ask the woman if she fears for her safety or for the safety of her children. The worker should always be aware that the severity of previous violence is no indicator of future violence, and that many survivors minimise the violence. Research has clearly shown that violence generally escalates both in frequency and severity. Never treat any threat that a FDV offender makes as idle.

(Taken from RDH Emergency Dept. Domestic Violence Reference Card)

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Last Updated: Friday, 20 March 1998 10:28