“My only option was to leave my job”: a survey to investigate the experience and impact of domestic abuse on healthcare professionals (the PRESSURE study)

Problem

Healthcare professionals (HCPs) are expected to identify and respond to domestic abuse among their patients. Although research suggests that a high proportion of HCPs are affected by domestic abuse, the impact of their experiences has been under-researched.

Approach

We aimed to assess UK HCPs' experiences of domestic abuse and develop a broad understanding ofits impact on work and HCPs’ support needs. We used an online cross-sectional survey, promoted via multiple professional channels (October-December 2022). We adopted convenience sampling and analysed data descriptively

Findings

Among the 192 HCP-survivors who responded, all abuse subtypes—psychological, sexual, economic, and physical—were common. Ninety percent of abusers were male (ex)partners. Eighty-five percent reported abusers directly interfered with their work and 92% reported their work and career were affected. Almost all reported physical and mental health consequences. Eighty-nine percent reported their own experiences shaped their responses to patient-survivors. On average, per year, HCP-survivors had 13 sick days, 5 days’ leave, 10 days’ lateness, and 6 days’ early departure due to domestic abuse. Only 20% reported their workplace had a staff domestic abuse policy, and over 50% were unsure what workplace support mechanisms were available. Just over half disclosed at work; concerns that others would question their fitness to practice were common. Twenty-two percent reported aspects of work, e.g., long hours, stopped them from seeking support outside work.

Consequences

HCPs face unique barriers to domestic abuse disclosure and support-seeking and may benefit from tailored support from specialists who understand both domestic abuse and the healthcare context.