A patient in preterm labor has bruises on the left lower abdomen, shoulders, and wrists after a fall. After vital signs and fetal monitoring have been completed, what is the nurse's next action?

A patient in preterm labor has bruises on the left lower abdomen, shoulders, and wrists after a fall. After vital signs and fetal monitoring have been completed, what is the nurse's next action?

• A. Document all injuries in the chart.
• B. Ask the client if she feels safe at home.
• C. Notify the obstetrician immediately.
• D. Withhold further questioning until the provider assesses.

Answer: (B)

This item tests recognizing and addressing possible intimate partner violence in perinatal care. The best next action is to ask the patient whether she feels safe at home. This direct, respectful screening helps uncover danger that might not be evident from injuries alone and allows the nurse to initiate safety planning and connect the patient with appropriate resources. It’s important to do this privately and with a nonjudgmental, supportive approach so the patient feels safe to disclose. While documenting injuries and coordinating care with the obstetric team are necessary steps, they do not address immediate safety needs or provide access to support services. Withholding questions until the provider assesses would delay crucial information about the patient’s safety.

This item tests recognizing and addressing possible intimate partner violence in perinatal care. The best next action is to ask the patient whether she feels safe at home. This direct, respectful screening helps uncover danger that might not be evident from injuries alone and allows the nurse to initiate safety planning and connect the patient with appropriate resources. It’s important to do this privately and with a nonjudgmental, supportive approach so the patient feels safe to disclose. While documenting injuries and coordinating care with the obstetric team are necessary steps, they do not address immediate safety needs or provide access to support services. Withholding questions until the provider assesses would delay crucial information about the patient’s safety.