Clinical Nurse Leader Practice Exam

In a domestic violence situation, what is the next appropriate step the CNL should take for the patient who was shot?

1. Inform the social worker about the incident

2. Place the patient under an alias name with her permission

3. Report the incident to the police

4. Contact the domestic violence RN for assistance

The correct answer is: Place the patient under an alias name with her permission

Choosing to place the patient under an alias name with her permission is a critical step in ensuring her safety and privacy, especially after experiencing domestic violence. This approach helps in multiple ways: it preserves the patient's confidentiality, protects her from potential further harm by the perpetrator, and may allow the patient to feel more secure in a very vulnerable situation. When dealing with sensitive situations that involve intimate partner violence, it is crucial to prioritize the patient's emotional and psychological safety alongside her physical well-being. Providing anonymity can empower the patient and aid in her willingness to seek help and engage with healthcare services. This is particularly important since situations involving domestic violence can induce feelings of fear and distrust towards authorities and the healthcare system. While informing a social worker, reporting to police, or contacting a domestic violence RN can also be essential steps in managing the aftermath of such incidents, prioritizing the immediate safety and choice of the patient through anonymity is crucial for her ongoing support and recovery process. This decision reflects the CNL's role in advocating for patient-centered care and ensuring that the patient's voice in her care is respected.