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Baert S, Fomenko E, Machiels A, Bicanic I, Van Belle S, Gemmel P, Gilles C, Roelens K, Keygnaert I. Mental health of sexual assault victims and predictors of their use of support from in-house psychologists at Belgian sexual assault care centres. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2023; 14:2263312. [PMID: 37819370 PMCID: PMC10569350 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2023.2263312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual assault (SA) can induce a negative impact on victims' mental health. Specialised SA services generally offer medical care and a forensic examination to SA victims. However, there is a large variation in how these services provide mental health support. OBJECTIVE This study aims to assess mental health problems of SA victims attending the Belgian Sexual Assault Care Centres (SACCs) and identify predictors for victims' use of support from in-house psychologists. METHOD Health records of victims ≥ 16 years who presented within one week post-SA to one of the three Belgian SACCs between 25 October 2017 and 31 October 2019 were reviewed. An AIC-based stepwise backward binary logistic regression was used to analyse the association between victim, assault, service use and mental health characteristics and follow-up by a SACC-psychologist. RESULTS Of the 555 victims, more than half had a history of mental health problems. Of those assessed, over 70% showed symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and/or anxiety disorder. One in two victims consulted a SACC-psychologist. Victims with a mental health history (OR 1.46, p = .04), victims accompanied by a support person during acute care (OR 1.51, p = .04), and victims who were assaulted by an acquaintance in comparison to those assaulted by a stranger (OR 1.60, p = .039) were more likely to attend their appointment with the SACC-psychologist. CONCLUSION The study reaffirms the high mental health burden among victims attending specialised SA services, stressing the need to provide effective mental health interventions at these services and improve their longer-term use by victims. Prescheduling of appointments with an in-house psychologist in combination with phone reminders may improve the uptake of such services. Health care providers must be vigilant about potential barriers faced by victims without a mental health history or social support in attending appointments with mental health professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saar Baert
- Ghent University, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Elizaveta Fomenko
- Ghent University, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Aurélie Machiels
- Ghent University, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Iva Bicanic
- National Psychotrauma Centre for Children and Youth, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Sara Van Belle
- Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Paul Gemmel
- Ghent University, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Kristien Roelens
- Ghent University, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ines Keygnaert
- Ghent University, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent, Belgium
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Mulder J, Teunissen TAM, Peters VMJ, Moors ML, Lagro-Janssen ALM. Views on Interprofessional Collaboration in a Dutch Sexual Assault Center: A Qualitative Study Among Workers. J Multidiscip Healthc 2023; 16:2001-2012. [PMID: 37484817 PMCID: PMC10361082 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s416996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose As the response to sexual assault victims proved to be shattered and substandard, sexual assault centers were set up to improve care by providing the victims with medical, psychosocial and legal care. The Dutch Centers for Sexual Assault were launched in 2012. We wished to examine the challenges in interprofessional collaboration experienced in a long-running Dutch Sexual Assault Center. Methods In this qualitative study, data was collected via semi-structured explorative interviews which were analyzed using thematic analysis in an iterative process. The semi-structured interviews were held with fifteen professionals from medical, psychosocial and legal disciplines. An interview guide was developed based on expert opinion and the Bronstein Index of Interprofessional Collaboration. Qualitative analyses were done using the method of thematic analysis in ATLAS.ti and were reported according to the COREQ criteria. The themes of the experienced challenges in interprofessional collaboration were further clarified using quotations. Results Participants mentioned three themes that challenged interprofessional collaboration: 1. discrepancies in professional involvement, 2. conflicting goals and 3. a lack of connection. Discrepancies in motivation and affinity to work with victims of sexual violence between professionals proved to be the most pivotal challenge to collaboration, leading to disturbing differences in professional involvement. A low caseload and time restraints complicated gaining expertise, affinity and motivation. Conflicting goals and confidentiality issues arose between the medical and legal disciplines due to their contrasting aims of caring for victims versus facilitating prosecution. Some professionals felt a lack of connection, particularly due to missing face-to-face personal contact, which hindered the sharing of complex or burdensome cases and gaining insight into the other discipline's competences. Conclusion Building collective ownership and equal professional involvement are crucial for interprofessional collaboration. Professional involvement should be increased by training courses to clarify conflicting goals and to improve reciprocal personal contact between professionals. Training courses should be facilitated with organizational financial support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmijn Mulder
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Gender and Women’s Health, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Theodora Alberta Maria Teunissen
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Gender and Women’s Health, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Veranie Maria Johanna Peters
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Gender and Women’s Health, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Marie Louise Moors
- Emergency Department, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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Crivatu IM, Horvath MAH, Massey K. The Impacts of Working With Victims of Sexual Violence: A Rapid Evidence Assessment. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2023; 24:56-71. [PMID: 34000946 PMCID: PMC9660261 DOI: 10.1177/15248380211016024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
AIM Supporting clients who have experienced trauma can lead to trauma symptoms in those working with them; workers in the sexual violence field are at heightened risks of these. This article collated and critically appraised papers, published from 2017 onward, in the area of people assisting victims of sexual violence. It explores the impacts and effects the work has on them, their coping and self-care mechanisms, and organizational support offered to them. DESIGN A question-based rapid evidence assessment with a triangulated weight of evidence approach was used. Academic and nonacademic databases were searched. Twenty-five papers were included for analysis based on the inclusion/exclusion criteria. RESULTS Most studies were of medium to high methodological quality. Negative impacts included trauma symptoms, disrupted social relationships, behavioral changes, and emotional and psychological distress. Ability to manage negative impacts was influenced by overall organizational support, availability of training, supervision and guidance, workloads and caseload characteristics, individual characteristics, and their coping and self-care mechanisms. Positive impacts included empowering feelings, improved relationships, compassion satisfaction, and posttraumatic growth. CONCLUSIONS Impacts are significant. Support at work and in personal life increases staff's ability to cope and find meaning in their role. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kristina Massey
- School of Law, Criminal Justice and Policing, Canterbury Christ Church
University, United Kingdom
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Brown SJ, Carter GJ, Halliwell G, Brown K, Caswell R, Howarth E, Feder G, O'Doherty L. Survivor, family and professional experiences of psychosocial interventions for sexual abuse and violence: a qualitative evidence synthesis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2022; 10:CD013648. [PMID: 36194890 PMCID: PMC9531960 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013648.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is well-established that experiencing sexual abuse and violence can have a range of detrimental impacts; a wide variety of interventions exist to support survivors in the aftermath. Understanding the experiences and perspectives of survivors receiving such interventions, along with those of their family members, and the professionals who deliver them is important for informing decision making as to what to offer survivors, for developing new interventions, and enhancing their acceptability. OBJECTIVES This review sought to: 1. identify, appraise and synthesise qualitative studies exploring the experiences of child and adult survivors of sexual abuse and violence, and their caregivers, regarding psychosocial interventions aimed at supporting survivors and preventing negative health outcomes in terms of benefits, risks/harms and barriers; 2. identify, appraise and synthesise qualitative studies exploring the experiences of professionals who deliver psychosocial interventions for sexual abuse and violence in terms of perceived benefits, risks/harms and barriers for survivors and their families/caregivers; 3. develop a conceptual understanding of how different factors influence uptake, dropout or completion, and outcomes from psychosocial interventions for sexual abuse and violence; 4. develop a conceptual understanding of how features and types of interventions responded to the needs of different user/survivor groups (e.g. age groups; types of abuse exposure; migrant populations) and contexts (healthcare/therapeutic settings; low- and middle-income countries (LMICs)); 5. explore how the findings of this review can enhance our understanding of the findings from the linked and related reviews assessing the effectiveness of interventions aimed at supporting survivors and preventing negative health outcomes. SEARCH METHODS In August 2021 we searched MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO and nine other databases. We also searched for unpublished reports and qualitative reports of quantitative studies in a linked systematic review, together with reference checking, citation searches and contacting authors and other researchers to identify relevant studies. SELECTION CRITERIA We included qualitative and mixed-methods studies (with an identifiable qualitative component) that were linked to a psychosocial intervention aimed at supporting survivors of sexual abuse and violence. Eligible studies focused on at least one of three participant groups: survivors of any age, gender, sexuality, ethnicity or [dis]ability who had received a psychosocial intervention; their carers, family members or partners; and professionals delivering such interventions. We placed no restrictions in respect of settings, locations, intervention delivery formats or durations. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Six review authors independently assessed the titles, abstracts and full texts identified. We extracted data using a form designed for this synthesis, then used this information and an appraisal of data richness and quality in order to stratify the studies using a maximum variation approach. We assessed the methodological limitations using the Critical Skills Appraisal Programme (CASP) tool. We coded directly onto the sampled papers using NVivo and synthesised data using a thematic synthesis methodology and used the GRADE-CERQual (Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research) approach to assess our confidence in each finding. We used a narrative synthesis and matrix model to integrate our qualitative evidence synthesis (QES) findings with those of intervention review findings. MAIN RESULTS We identified 97 eligible studies and sampled 37 of them for our analysis. Most sampled studies were from high-income countries, with four from middle-income and two from low-income countries. In 27 sampled studies, the participants were survivors, in three they were intervention facilitators. Two included all three of our stakeholder groups, and five included two of our groups. The studies explored a wide range of psychosocial interventions, with only one type of intervention explored in more than one study. The review indicates that features associated with the context in which interventions were delivered had an impact on how individuals accessed and experienced interventions. This included organisational features, such as staff turnover, that could influence survivors' engagement with interventions; the setting or location in which interventions were delivered; and the characteristics associated with who delivered the interventions. Studies that assess the effectiveness of interventions typically assess their impact on mental health; however, as well as finding benefits to mental health, our QES found that study participants felt interventions also had positive impacts on their physical health, mood, understanding of trauma, interpersonal relationships and enabled them to re-engage with a wide range of areas in their lives. Participants explained that features of interventions and their contexts that best enabled them to benefit from interventions were also often things that could be a barrier to benefiting from interventions. For example, the relationship with the therapist, when open and warm was a benefit, but if such a relationship could not be achieved, it was a barrier. Survivors' levels of readiness and preparedness to both start and end interventions could have positive (if they were ready) or negative (if they were not) impacts. Study participants identified the potential risks and harms associated with completing interventions but felt that it was important to face and process trauma. Some elements of interventions were specific to the intervention type (e.g. faith-based interventions), or related to an experience of an intervention that held particular relevance to subgroups of survivors (e.g. minority groups); these issues could impact how individuals experienced delivering or receiving interventions. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We had high or moderate confidence in all but one of our review findings. Further research in low- and middle-income settings, with male survivors of sexual abuse and violence and those from minority groups could strengthen the evidence for low and moderate confidence findings. We found that few interventions had published quantitative and qualitative evaluations. Since this QES has highlighted important aspects that could enable interventions to be more suitable for survivors, using a range of methodologies would provide valuable information that could enhance intervention uptake, completion and effectiveness. This study has shown that although survivors often found interventions difficult, they also appreciated that they needed to work through trauma, which they said resulted in a wide range of benefits. Therefore, listening to survivors and providing appropriate interventions, at the right time for them, can make a significant difference to their health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Brown
- School of Law and Society, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Australia
- Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences (HAS), University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol, UK
| | - Grace J Carter
- Institute for Health and Wellbeing, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
| | - Gemma Halliwell
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Katherine Brown
- Department of Psychology and Sports Science, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Rachel Caswell
- Sexual Health and HIV Medicine, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Emma Howarth
- School of Psychology, University of East London, London, UK
| | - Gene Feder
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Lorna O'Doherty
- Institute for Health and Wellbeing, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
- Department of General Practice, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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De Meyer S, Jerves E, Cevallos-Neira A, Arpi-Becerra N, Van den Bossche R, Lecompte M, Vega B, Michielsen K. Which factors contribute to sexual well-being? A comparative study among 17 to 20 year old boys and girls in Belgium and Ecuador. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2022; 24:1122-1138. [PMID: 34126851 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2021.1928288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Despite recognition that sexual well-being is an important part of adolescent sexual and reproductive health, a clear description of adolescent sexual well-being does not yet exist. Through six in-depth interviews and four focus group discussions with 56 young people in two distinct contexts (Belgium and Ecuador), we used the social-ecological framework to identify factors influencing adolescent sexual well-being. According to respondents, the main factors that influence adolescent sexual well-being are not only situated at the individual (having knowledge and skills and being physically, sexually and mental mature and healthy) and interpersonal levels (positive attraction towards others and communication about sexuality), but at a broader societal level, including social acceptance of sex, gender and sexual diversity and its (legal) translation into comprehensive sexuality education and the ready availability of contraceptives. Our results go well beyond two existing definitions of (adolescent) sexual well-being to contribute to understanding and measurement from the perspective of young people themselves, adding substantively to ongoing discussion about the definition of the concept.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara De Meyer
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Elena Jerves
- Faculty of Philosophy, Letters and Educational Sciences, University of Cuenca, Cuenca, Ecuador
| | | | | | | | - Margaux Lecompte
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bernardo Vega
- Department of Medicine, University of Cuenca, Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - Kristien Michielsen
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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6
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Covers MLV, Teeuwen J, Bicanic IAE. Male Victims at a Dutch Sexual Assault Center: A Comparison to Female Victims inCharacteristics and Service Use. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP14772-NP14786. [PMID: 33983069 PMCID: PMC9326791 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211015220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Recently, there has been an increase in referrals of male victims of sexual assault to interdisciplinary sexual assault centers (SACs). Still, there is limited research on the characteristics of men who refer or are referred to SACs and the services they need. To facilitate the medical, forensic, and psychological treatment in SACs, a better understanding of male victims is indispensable.The first aim of the study was to analyze the victim and assault characteristics of male victims at a Dutch SAC, and to compare them to those of female victims. The second aim was to analyze and compare SAC service use between male and female victims.The victim characteristics, assault characteristics, and service use of 34 male victims and 633 female victims were collected in a Dutch SAC. T-tests and chi-square tests were used to analyze differences between male and female victims.No differences between males and females in victim or assault characteristics were found. Most victims received medical and psychological care, with no differences between male and female victims. Female victims were more likely to have contact with the police, but no differences in reporting or forensic medical examinations between males and females were found.These findings indicate that SACs can and do provide equal services to male and female victims, and that the current services are suitable for male victims as well. However, a focus on educating and advising male victims about police involvement is advisable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milou L. V. Covers
- National Psychotrauma Center for
Children and Youth, University Medical Center Utrecht, Lundlaan 6, 3584 EA Utrecht,
The Netherlands
| | - Janna Teeuwen
- National Psychotrauma Center for
Children and Youth, University Medical Center Utrecht, Lundlaan 6, 3584 EA Utrecht,
The Netherlands
| | - Iva A. E. Bicanic
- National Psychotrauma Center for
Children and Youth, University Medical Center Utrecht, Lundlaan 6, 3584 EA Utrecht,
The Netherlands
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7
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Bach MH, Beck Hansen N, Ahrens C, Nielsen CR, Walshe C, Hansen M. Underserved survivors of sexual assault: a systematic scoping review. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2021; 12:1895516. [PMID: 33889311 PMCID: PMC8043556 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2021.1895516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Despite knowledge about the extensive and often long-lasting consequences of sexual assault, many survivors remain underserved by formal support systems (e.g. medical, mental health and criminal justice systems). Reasons for underutilizing services are as diverse as the survivors themselves, and little is known about which survivors are most underserved and why they are underserved. Objective: To help organize existing findings on this topic, a systematic scoping review was conducted to identify adult survivors of sexual assault, who may be particularly underserved when attempting to obtain services in Western countries. Method: Five databases (PsycINFO, Embase, MEDLINE, Scopus and CINAHL) were systematically searched for studies published in English from 2000 onwards using terms such as 'sexual assault', 'help seeking', 'formal support', 'barriers' and variations thereof. Results: A total of 41 studies were included in the present scoping review, resulting in seven main categories of underserved survivors: Ethnic and cultural minorities, Disabilities, Financial vulnerability, Sexual and gender minorities, Mental health conditions, Problematic substance use, and Older age. Barriers encountered by survivors with these characteristics included limited access to formal supports and insufficient training and awareness among service providers about how to best support survivors. Conclusions: Recommendations include the need for more survivor-centred, culturally appropriate and trauma-informed services and more attention to survivors belonging to underserved groups in policy, practice and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Hardeberg Bach
- THRIVE, Department of Psychology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Nina Beck Hansen
- THRIVE, Department of Psychology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Odense University Hospital, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Courtney Ahrens
- Department of Psychology, California State University Long Beach, Long Beach, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Maj Hansen
- THRIVE, Department of Psychology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Baert S, Gilles C, Van Belle S, Bicanic I, Roelens K, Keygnaert I. Piloting sexual assault care centres in Belgium: who do they reach and what care is offered? Eur J Psychotraumatol 2021; 12:1935592. [PMID: 34367523 PMCID: PMC8317926 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2021.1935592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual assault (SA) is highly prevalent in Belgium. In order to mitigate the negative consequences for victims of acute SA, Sexual Assault Care Centres (SACCs) were piloted from October 2017 to October 2018 in three Belgian hospitals. SACCs offer medical and psychological care, forensic examination and the possibility to report to the police at the SACC. OBJECTIVE Aiming to improve SACC services, we quantitatively assessed the number and characteristics of victims attending the SACC, the SA they experienced, and the care they received over 12 months upon admission. METHOD Data on victims presenting at the SACC were routinely collected in electronic patient files by the SACC personnel between 25 October 2017 and 31 October 2019. These data were analysed in IBM SPSS Statistics 25. RESULTS Within the first year 931 victims attended the SACCs. Mean age was 24.5 years (SD = 12.8), and one-third were under 18. The majority were female (90.5%) and 63.1% presented for rape. About one-third of the victims were considered vulnerable due to previous SA (35.6%), prior psychiatric consultation (38.7%) or disability (8.5%). The assailant was known to the victim in 59.2% of the cases. Of all SACC presentations, 35.2% self-referred to the SACC while 40.9% were referred by the police. Two out of three victims attended the SACC within 72 h post-assault. Respectively 74.7% of victims received medical care, 60.6% a forensic examination, 50.2% psychological care, and 68.7% reported to the police. CONCLUSION Despite the absence of promotion campaigns, the SACCs received a high number of victims during the pilot year. Use of acute and follow-up services was high, although new approaches to offer more accessible psychological support should be explored. The big proportion of vulnerable victims warrants careful monitoring and adaptation of care pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saar Baert
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christine Gilles
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint-Pierre University Hospital Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sara Van Belle
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Iva Bicanic
- National Psychotrauma Center for Children and Youth, University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Kristien Roelens
- Department of Human Structure and Repair, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ines Keygnaert
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Jiménez-Rodríguez D, Belmonte García MT, Santillán García A, Plaza del Pino FJ, Ponce-Valencia A, Arrogante O. Nurse Training in Gender-Based Violence Using Simulated Nursing Video Consultations during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17228654. [PMID: 33233390 PMCID: PMC7700114 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17228654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Gender-based violence (GBV) is a serious global public health problem that becomes aggravated during public health emergencies that involve quarantine measures. It is important to train nursing students on GBV, especially in vulnerable situations, such as the current COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of our study is to explore the perceptions of third-year nursing students about simulated nursing video consultations for providing assistance to potential cases of GBV victims using a high-fidelity clinical simulation methodology. After all of the simulated scenarios were completed, 48 scripted interviews were carried out following a guide composed of four open-ended questions to facilitate in-depth discussion. A descriptive qualitative study based on the interpretative paradigm was conducted. The nursing students indicated that they improved their knowledge on GBV victim management (mainly their awareness of the problem, recognition of the role of nursing professionals, and performance of non-technical skills), although they also mentioned the need for continuous training (particularly in socio-emotional skills, interview techniques, a holistic nursing care approach, and not presupposing). This innovative high-fidelity simulation methodology allows nursing students to improve their awareness of the GBV problem, acquire a realistic view about their role in addressing GBV, and build their non-technical skills (such as active listening, communication skills, empathy, and generating confidence) required to adequately care for victims of GBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Jiménez-Rodríguez
- Department of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Medicine, University of Almeria, 04120 Almeria, Spain; (M.T.B.G.); (F.J.P.d.P.)
- Correspondence:
| | - María Teresa Belmonte García
- Department of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Medicine, University of Almeria, 04120 Almeria, Spain; (M.T.B.G.); (F.J.P.d.P.)
| | | | - Fernando Jesús Plaza del Pino
- Department of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Medicine, University of Almeria, 04120 Almeria, Spain; (M.T.B.G.); (F.J.P.d.P.)
| | - Alicia Ponce-Valencia
- Faculty of Nursing, Campus de los Jerónimos s/n, Catholic University of Murcia, 30107 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Oscar Arrogante
- University Centre of Health Sciences San Rafael, San Juan de Dios Foundation, Nebrija University, 28036 Madrid, Spain;
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Brown SJ, Khasteganan N, Carter GJ, Brown K, Caswell RJ, Howarth E, Feder G, O'Doherty L. Survivor, family and professional experiences of psychosocial interventions for sexual abuse and violence: a qualitative evidence synthesis. Hippokratia 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Brown
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences; Coventry University; Coventry UK
- Faculty of Arts, Business and Law, Law School; USC: University of the Sunshine Coast; Sippy Downs Australia
| | | | - Grace J Carter
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences; Coventry University; Coventry UK
| | - Katherine Brown
- Department of Psychology and Sports Science; University of Hertfordshire; Hatfield UK
| | - Rachel J Caswell
- Sexual Health and HIV Medicine; University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust; Birmingham UK
| | - Emma Howarth
- School of Psychology; University of East London; London UK
| | - Gene Feder
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School; University of Bristol; Bristol UK
| | - Lorna O'Doherty
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences; Coventry University; Coventry UK
- Department of General Practice; The University of Melbourne; Melbourne Australia
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11
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Brown SJ, Khasteganan N, Brown K, Hegarty K, Carter GJ, Tarzia L, Feder G, O'Doherty L. Psychosocial interventions for survivors of rape and sexual assault experienced during adulthood. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Brown
- Coventry University; Faculty of Health and Life Sciences; Priory Street Coventry UK CV1 5FB
- University of the Sunshine Coast; School of Law and Criminology; 90 Sippy Downs Drive Sippy Downs Queensland Australia 4556
| | - Nazanin Khasteganan
- Coventry University; Faculty of Health and Life Sciences; Priory Street Coventry UK CV1 5FB
| | - Katherine Brown
- Coventry University; Faculty of Health and Life Sciences; Priory Street Coventry UK CV1 5FB
| | - Kelsey Hegarty
- The University of Melbourne; Department of General Practice; 200 Berkeley Street Parkville Melbourne Australia 3010
- The Royal Women's Hospital; Victoria Australia
| | - Grace J Carter
- Coventry University; Faculty of Health and Life Sciences; Priory Street Coventry UK CV1 5FB
| | - Laura Tarzia
- The University of Melbourne; Department of General Practice; 200 Berkeley Street Parkville Melbourne Australia 3010
- The Royal Women's Hospital; Victoria Australia
| | - Gene Feder
- University of Bristol; Centre for Academic Primary Care, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School; Canynge Hall 39 Whatley Road Bristol UK BS8 2PS
| | - Lorna O'Doherty
- Coventry University; Faculty of Health and Life Sciences; Priory Street Coventry UK CV1 5FB
- The University of Melbourne; Department of General Practice; 200 Berkeley Street Parkville Melbourne Australia 3010
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Peeters L, Vandenberghe A, Hendriks B, Gilles C, Roelens K, Keygnaert I. Current care for victims of sexual violence and future sexual assault care centres in Belgium: the perspective of victims. BMC INTERNATIONAL HEALTH AND HUMAN RIGHTS 2019; 19:21. [PMID: 31248413 PMCID: PMC6598354 DOI: 10.1186/s12914-019-0207-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Background Sexual violence is a global health problem. After ratifying the Convention of Istanbul in 2016, this Belgian study was set up to map the perspective of victims of rape on the current sexual violence care provision in Belgium and to inquire on their need for more specialised and holistic care in future Sexual Assault Care Centres. Methods Sixteen rape victims participated in this sub-study. A mixed-method design (questionnaire, in-depth interview or small focus group) was applied depending on the time elapsed between rape and participation. Descriptive Thematic Framework Analysis was performed in duo. Results The participants thought it of utmost importance that every victim should receive all medical, psychological and forensic care without necessarily having to involve the police first. They stated that the current Belgian sexual violence care provision could be much more patient-centred, specifically the forensic examination and psychological care. Alongside medical and psychological consequences, victims emphasised the high personal financial and relational burden of sexual violence. The holistic care offered in Sexual Assault Care Centres was perceived to enhance the recovery process of victims of sexual violence. Their doors should be open to all victims and their relatives. They should not only provide acute care for the victim, but also improve victims’ reintegration into society while reducing their personal costs significantly. Conclusion All care for victims of sexual violence, especially forensic and psychological care, needs drastic improvement in Belgium. All participants agreed that having specialised, multidisciplinary and longitudinal care in a Sexual Assault Care Centre that would be open 24/7 for everyone, victims and their significant others, would be an improvement to the currently available care all over Belgium. Trial registration This research was registered on April 1st 2016. Registration number B670201628242.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Peeters
- International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH), Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, UZP114, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Anke Vandenberghe
- International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH), Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, UZP114, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bavo Hendriks
- International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH), Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, UZP114, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christine Gilles
- Department of obstetrics and gynecology, CHU Saint Pierre, Université Libre de Bruxelles, rue Haute 320, 1000, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kristien Roelens
- International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH), Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, UZP114, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ines Keygnaert
- International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH), Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, UZP114, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
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Ogbe E, Van Braeckel D, Temmerman M, Larsson EC, Keygnaert I, De Los Reyes Aragón W, Cheng F, Lazdane G, Cooper D, Shamu S, Gichangi P, Dias S, Barrett H, Nobels A, Pei K, Galle A, Esho T, Knight L, Tabana H, Degomme O. Opportunities for linking research to policy: lessons learned from implementation research in sexual and reproductive health within the ANSER network. Health Res Policy Syst 2018; 16:123. [PMID: 30558612 PMCID: PMC6297973 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-018-0397-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The uptake of findings from sexual and reproductive health and rights research into policy-making remains a complex and non-linear process. Different models of research utilisation and guidelines to maximise this in policy-making exist, however, challenges still remain for researchers to improve uptake of their research findings and for policy-makers to use research evidence in their work. Methods A participatory workshop with researchers was organised in November 2017 by the Academic Network for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Policy (ANSER) to address this gap. ANSER is a consortium of experienced researchers, some of whom have policy-making experience, working on sexual and reproductive health and rights issues across 16 countries and 5 continents. The experiential learning cycle was used to guide the workshop discussions based on case studies and to encourage participants to focus on key lessons learned. Workshop findings were thematically analysed using specific stages from Hanney et al.’s (Health Res Policy Syst 1:2, 2003) framework on the place of policy-making in the stages of assessment of research utilisation and outcomes. Results The workshop identified key strategies for translating research into policy, including joint agenda-setting between researchers and policy-makers, as well as building trust and partnerships with different stakeholders. These were linked to stages within Hanney et al.’s framework as opportunities for engaging with policy-makers to ensure uptake of research findings. Conclusion The engagement of stakeholders during the research development and implementation phases, especially at strategic moments, has a positive impact on uptake of research findings. The strategies and stages described in this paper can be applied to improve utilisation of research findings into policy development and implementation globally.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emilomo Ogbe
- International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Dirk Van Braeckel
- International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Elin C Larsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University/Karolinska Institutet, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ines Keygnaert
- International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Feng Cheng
- School of Medicine and Research Centre for Public Health, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Gunta Lazdane
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Riga Stradins University, Riga, Latvia
| | - Diane Cooper
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Simukai Shamu
- Foundation for Professional Development, Pretoria, South Africa.,School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Peter Gichangi
- University of Nairobi, Ghent University and International Centre for Reproductive Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sónia Dias
- Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Centro de Investigação em Saúde Pública, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Hazel Barrett
- Centre for Trust, Peace and Social relations, Coventry University, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Anne Nobels
- International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kaiyan Pei
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Anna Galle
- International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tammary Esho
- Department of Community and Public Health, Technical University of Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Lucia Knight
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Hanani Tabana
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Olivier Degomme
- International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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