Dentaltown November 2020 - 26

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Suspected Domestic Abuse
A serious topic and an opportunity to help someone potentially trapped in an abusive relationship:
Townies discuss the right and wrong ways to approach a patient who has visible bruises

CanadianInTexas
Member Since: 02/17/06
Post: 1 of 22

I saw a Hispanic patient, 35, yesterday for a couple fillings. She came in wearing sunglasses in
the office. She had some significant bruising around her right eye/cheekbone with some abrasion
and some more minor bruising on the left. I asked her what happened, and she said that a lamp
fell on her. I asked if she was OK and she said yes. I didn't really believe her, so after treatment I
sat her up again and looked at her straight-on. I asked, "Are you sure that what happened to you
was an accident?" She answered yes. Then I said, "I want to make sure that you are safe. Do you
feel safe?" She again answered yes.
We think she is dating a male patient of ours who is 20 years older than her because he is the
contact person and he set her appointment. I documented the conversation and our objective
signs noted, but when she denies it, is there still some place to report things like this? There is
the odd chance it was a freak accident. Even if cops followed up, if she denies it there is not really
anything that can be done. Just looking for advice here. ■
9/15/2016

dmarshall
Member Since: 02/05/06
Post: 2 of 22

If you see unusual marks (black eye, etc.) and you suspect it is a case of domestic abuse,
then you are morally and professionally bound to report it to the authorities at once. No halfmeasures. ■
9/15/2016

kkmcg
Member Since: 03/16/02
Post: 3 of 22

In my state, Maryland, this would be true for a child or a senior citizen, or someone dependent on another for care, but not for a competent adult. If they don't want you to report it, I
don't think you can. ■
9/15/2016

tbeholland
Member Since: 02/05/03
Post: 5 of 22

Report it for your own peace of mind. If your gut is telling you she got beat up, she probably
did. If you report it, you may lose two patients but you may also save a life.
If you don't report and this woman is injured or killed, then this will be hanging over your
head forever. ■
9/15/2016

CanadianInTexas
Member Since: 02/17/06
Post: 6 of 22

FYI, I ended up calling to report, but they explained right away that if the suspected victim
is an adult, she "has to be the one to make the outcry." ■
9/21/2016

southerndmd
Member Since: 08/25/10
Post: 8 of 22

If there is a shelter near you that deals with domestic violence, write down the phone number
for the patient and have her memorize it before she leaves and let her know they can help her
when she feels ready to talk to someone in a safe place. That way, she has no paper trail to follow
her home, yet you know she knows how to get in touch with folks who can help her. ■
9/21/2016

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Dentaltown November 2020

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