Skip to main content
. Author manuscript; available in PMC: 2018 Jul 31.
Published in final edited form as: J Midwifery Womens Health. 2016 Mar 18;61(3):370–375. doi: 10.1111/jmwh.12443

Table 3. Sample Responses for a Positive IPV Screen.

Part of Response Example Language
Ask the woman if she wants assistance at this time Thank you for answering. I know it can be hard to discuss this topic. Would you like me to help you with this?
Offer assistance and choices (1) May I share some resources with you?(2) I'd be happy to talk with you about this now, or if you prefer we can make a follow-up appointment.(3) Would you like me to help you make a call to a hotline that helps women in this situation? If you would prefer to speak privately, I can set you up with a phone in a private room.(4) There are several local community resources for women in similar situations; if you would like, I can help you make an appointment, or we can call one of them together.
Encourage safety planning without coercion I would like to help you to remain safe while in your relationship. May I share some safety planning techniques with you?
Communicate that resources and help are available It's okay if you don't want help now. If you change your mind and want assistance or resources in the future, I are here and I am happy to help. You are not alone.