Date of Award

11-4-2024

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nursing (MScN)

First Advisor

Dr. Tazeen Saeed

Second Advisor

Ms. Ambreen Tharani

Third Advisor

Dr. Warisha Qamar

Department

School of Nursing and Midwifery, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) remains a significant public health issue, particularly in developing countries like Pakistan, where healthcare providers often do not routinely screen for IPV, despite its known benefits. Cultural norms, lack of protocols, insufficient training, and discomfort with screening hinder the effective detection of IPV in rural healthcare settings. This study addresses the gap in understanding healthcare providers' IPV screening practices in rural settings. Purpose The study aimed to explore current IPV screening practices among healthcare providers in rural areas, identify the key barriers and facilitators affecting these practices, and propose policy and practice recommendations to enhance IPV management.
Methods: A descriptive qualitative exploratory study design was employed. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews with healthcare providers from two hospitals: Saidu Teaching Hospital and ZKS Category C Hospital in Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Purposive sampling was used to select participants. Data were transcribed, translated, and analysed using Creswell's steps for qualitative content analysis to identify themes and categories.
Findings Three major themes emerged from the analysis: (1) Assessment, Recognition, and Challenges in IPV Screening, which highlighted the lack of formal protocols, sociocultural barriers, and organizational constraints that hinder screening; (2) Advantages of Routine IPV Screening, which emphasized the need for early detection, enhanced safety for victims, and increased awareness among healthcare providers; and (3) Recommendations for Effective Case Management and Professional Development, which stressed the importance of ongoing training, comprehensive case management, and institutional policy reforms.
Conclusions: The study highlights significant barriers to IPV screening in rural healthcare settings, including the absence of standardized protocols and the sociocultural context of Swat, which discourages IPV disclosure. The findings underscore the need for routine screening protocols, increased training, and the recruitment of female healthcare providers to improve IPV management. Engaging community leaders and addressing resource constraints are also recommended to facilitate more effective screening practices in similar rural and resource limited settings.

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1

Last Page

117

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