Characterizing Possible Acute Brain Injury in Women Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence: A Retrospective Chart Review

Violence Against Women. 2024 Aug;30(10):2511-2530. doi: 10.1177/10778012231159417. Epub 2023 Feb 28.

Abstract

Survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) often experience violent blows to the head, face, and neck and/or strangulation that result in brain injury (BI). Researchers reviewed the de-identified forensic nursing examination records of 205 women. More than 88% of women were subjected to multiple mechanisms of injury with in excess of 60% experiencing strangulation. About 31% disclosed various symptoms consistent with BI. Women experiencing strangulation were 2.24 times more likely to report BI-related symptoms compared to those who reported no strangulation. In conclusion, women experiencing IPV are prone to BI suggesting early screening and appropriate management are warranted.

Keywords: acute brain injury; forensic nursing examination; head trauma; intimate partner violence; strangulation.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brain Injuries* / complications
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intimate Partner Violence* / psychology
  • Intimate Partner Violence* / statistics & numerical data
  • Middle Aged
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Survivors / psychology
  • Survivors / statistics & numerical data