Nurses at all levels of practice can use these perspectives to identify patterns in the complex adaptive healthcare system to improve quality and safety. Best practices include enhancing teamwork, implementing safety initiatives and promoting a Relationship-Based framework. Continued study of caring nurse practice could lead to establishment of additional safety and quality protocols vital to improving patient outcomes.
Purpose
The TeLL Dating Violence Project was created by three advanced practice nurses to mitigate the risk of dating violence on a college campus through establishment of an innovative program of education and policy change.
Data sources
Literature regarding dating and domestic violence and the subsequent health effects as it pertains to college‐aged students was reviewed. Government agency documentation pertaining to the legal requirements to protect students was included. Several college documents were compared for education and awareness programs, safety and prevention measures, and reporting and follow‐up procedures. Key stakeholders on campus were accessed to determine unmet student needs.
Conclusions
Dating violence is a common occurrence among college students. Women are more likely to be affected and at greatest risk for experiencing nonfatal intimate partner violence and nonconsensual sexual experiences. Dating violence significantly impacts the short‐ and long‐term health of victims and has significant financial effects as well.
Implications for practice
Nurses are in a unique position to identify and refer clients who may have experienced dating violence. By partnering with campus health centers, student organizations, and public safety the risk of dating violence can be mitigated. An innovative program developed by a team of advanced practice nurses that involves policy change, awareness, and education is outlined.
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