Table of Contents

ABSTRACT

In response to this COVID-19 pandemic, the healthcare providers have shifted to telemedicine consultations that unwillingly produced additional distress in intimate partner violence (IPV) victims. This paper aims to raise awareness of increasing coping difficulty in IPV victims, help clinicians recognize its red flags during telemedicine, and compile strategies on safe and effective communication. Literature review was conducted on Google Scholar and PubMed. After reviewing eighteen selected articles, the signs of potential IPV have been summarized to help clinicians identify the victims, ask appropriate questions, and strategize their approach. The multiple studies showed worldwide uptrends in IPV during this pandemic. All the studies supported for universal education while screening all female patients, a harm reduction approach with ensuring confidentiality, and empowering the victims with appropriate referrals. The patient-centered approach with more details on red flags of IPV, questions for victims, and strategies for professionals have been summarized in this paper. Despite the challenges faced by physicians during telemedicine, the skills acquired in previous experiences should be continued when interacting with IPV victims. The ability to recognize the non-verbal findings of IPV, and the skill to examine victims in a compassionate and sensitive matter needs an update during these emerging crises.

Keywords: Domestic violence, intimate partner violence, spousal abuse, telemedicine, COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2