EMS workers must answer all types of calls. Often, these calls put them in danger. This is the case when the call is to a domestic violence situation.
Statistics show that domestic violence is one of the most deadly situations, not only for the immediate family members but for police officers and emergency workers responding to the scene.
Some common sense safety techniques can keep a bad situation from getting worse.
- Don’t engage the perpetrator. Often he or she is already volatile and any provocation could lead to more violence. Law enforcement personnel are trained as to how to talk to the aggressors in these dangerous situations. If the EMS worker is the first person on the scene, he or she should try not to get involved. But if it seems that the violence is progressing, he or she should use their own judgment as to whether or not they want to get involved.
- Don’t cross police lines to get to an injured party. Those lines are there for reason. As difficult as it is to stand by while someone is hurt, breaking that barrier could lead to more injuries.
- Documentation is particularly vital in domestic situations. Sometimes the EMS worker is the first on the scene. Writing down everything can help police in their investigation.
- All EMS workers should be trained in how to handle domestic situations. EMS workers should also understand that they may respond to the same homes repeatedly. Domestic violence is a tough cycle and often men and women feel they have no choice but to stay in their situations, no matter how bad they are. EMS workers may want to keep phone numbers and pamphlets from the nearest shelter to hand out to victims.
Local shelters and police are great resources for further education about the problems and issues surrounding domestic violence. Many communities offer classes for the public about domestic violence and are a good option if other resources are not available.
Article provided by Kim Berly
