The Silent Crisis: Assessing Emergency Department Nurses' Readiness to Safeguard Victims of Intimate Partner Violence in Iraq

Background Emergency nurses’ readiness encompassing the ability of screening, provide confidential communication, adhere to clinical and legal protocols, perform documentation, and facilitate referral is associated with minimizing physical and psychological trauma and improving victims’ quality of life. This study aimed to investigate nurses' readiness in managing intimate partner violence (IPV) in emergency departments. Methods This cross-sectional study included 250 emergency nurses selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using demographic questionnaires and the Physician Readiness to Manage Intimate Partner Violence Survey. Data were analyzed using STATA version 17 and non-parametric tests including Spearman's correlation, Wilcoxon Rank-Sum, and Kruskal-Wallis and generalized linear regression tests. A statistical significance level was at p < 0.05. Results The mean perceived readiness score of nurses for IPV was 33.88 ± 8.90 (score range 9–63). Significant positive inter-correlations were found between perceived readiness, knowledge, attitude and practice (P ≥ 0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis identified, education (Master's degree) as the strongest positive predictor for both perceived readiness (B = 0.707) and knowledge (B = 0.722), specialized training for perceived readiness (B = 0.353) and Work experience for nurses' attitude toward IPV management (B = 0.021). Conclusions The current readiness and knowledge of nurses require significant improvement, particularly since a large proportion of staff have received no specialized training in IPV management. Based on results, relying solely on demographic variables is inadequate for improving clinical outcomes. We strongly recommend the immediate implementation of structured, mandatory training programs, the establishment of clear evidence-based protocols in emergency departments, and robust organizational support to ensure nurses are equipped for effective IPV intervention.