Table 2 IPV-Specific Strategies by DVSA Stage

1. Committed to continuing the

relationship

Nurse:

• asks about safety

• provides information about healthy relationships

• provides information on local community resources

2. Committed to, but questioning, the

relationship

Nurse provides information about:

• the health and social impacts of IPV on women and

children

• the cycle of abuse

• strategies for responding to abuse

• community resources and processes for accessing

support

3. Views herself as abused and begins

to consider her options

Nurse:

• helps woman explore the strengths and limitations of

their relationships

• provides options for addressing IPV

• helps woman engage in safety planning

4. Breaking away

Nurse:

• continues to focus on safety planning

• helps woman access resources and navigate the system

• "encourage and support" rather than "push"

5. Establishing a new life

Nurse:

• continues to provide tailored support to help women stabilize and maintain their situation

• facilitates access to formal and informal social supports