Ravono, AkisiLecturer, School of Nursing,

CMNHS, Fiji National University.

ASSISTING VIOLENCE VICTIMS THROUGH CAREFUL INTERVENTIONS: A CHALLENGE FOR NURSES

It is a ‘human problem’; whether perpetrated by men or women. The problem is not about violent men or women but violence in families. Strategies undertaken by any society to addressany type of domestic violence is an issue that must be considered because if it is ignored othertypes of violence may become acceptable.

Mixed method- survey questionnaire (n = 216)- face-to-face interviews (n = 16). Analysis- SPSS & NVivo Results: 36% male, 28% female admitted

being abused at home. - 64% males, 72% of women reported

witnessing acts of violence at home.

The“Perfect Couple” n = 16 (100%) Image n = 16 (100%)

Look perfect in front of others

Cannot escape from experience

Privately deal with it

Display two personalities, one in private and one in public life

Get Help from others

Jone:“People from the outside think that everything is alright. This type of pressure has prevented me from living a life away from the abuse. At most times, I wanted to get out but often think of what others will say. It’s a problem because I have to carry all my experiences around with me. My wife displays two different faces, good in front of others, especially in church but is different at home. I do not want to criticize her but it is reality.”

Luisa: “Many times, I pretended that we’re okay when we’re not. This has bothered me and is affecting our marital relationship. Our relatives think that we’re okay. I hide the actual truth about our relationship. When other people are with us, I pretend to be good. He is the one that is providingfor us, so I better respect him for that. We need to remember our cultural values too.”

Preventative- in any setting, this can be fully utilized to the meet needs of domestic violence victims. Nurses can lead the way by establishing an

identification process that would identify potential victims in the community, Eg; through reports

This will assist in establishing a prevention program

for those potential victims which would ultimately reduce health costs.

Curative Services certain strategies can be implemented to provide holistic care of vulnerable individuals.

Follow up care of victims, which would include referrals to proper authorities

Empowerment through counselling services by health care providers can assist domestic violence victims.

Nurses must be able to recognize signs of violence in their patients and families. This will contribute increased knowledge regarding the existence and extent of the problem. It would provide early intervention for victims by referring patients to the proper authorities.

Those employed must be empowered to be vigilant for the most optimum outcome.