Exploring Medical Outcomes for Victims of Intimate Partner Violence Related Strangulation

• In Event: Intimate Partner Related Strangulation

Abstract

Identification and detection of the signs and symptoms of strangulation are challenging; and for a variety of reasons, victims are often reluctant to seek medical attention (Cole 2004). Research on medical outcomes for IVPRS victims is still emerging and early studies indicate that only 29% of IPVRS victims sought medical treatment following their strangulation incident (Wilbur, 2001). Given the known dangers of IVPRS, and the potential for adverse medical consequences, early detection of IPVRS is important. In 2018, the City of Burleson enacted the “Effective Response to Strangulation” ordinance that mandates a specific protocol for first responders to adhere to when responding to cases of potential IPVRS. A central feature of the response protocol is to improve the detection of strangulation as well as increase the number of victims receiving medical evaluation and treatment by first responders. The presentation will review findings from an evaluation of the Protocol to determine if medical outcomes improved following the implementation of the Ordinance.

Authors

• Tara O’Connor Shelley, Tarleton State University

• Cortney Franklin, Washington State University