Biologic correlates to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder in female victims of intimate partner violence: implications for practice.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this article is to discuss the current literature about the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in victims of intimate partner violence (IPV).


CONCLUSIONS
PTSD is a complex and serious syndrome with emotional symptoms, psychiatric symptoms, and physical consequences. PTSD is associated with impaired immune function, obesity, increased risk of diabetes, increased severity of premenstrual syndrome symptoms, depression, suicide, and increased likelihood of re-abuse. Female victims of IPV develop PTSD and related consequences at a rate of 74-92%, compared to 6-13% in non-abused women.


CONCLUSIONS
Advanced practice nurses (APNs) are likely to see one or both of these problems in their practices. The vague, nonspecific symptoms can present challenges to APNs. Biologic correlates are identified to help the APNs identify those most at risk of developing PTSD. Treatment options are discussed.
Scott-Tilley
Donna
D
Department of Nursing, Texas Woman's University, Denton, TX, USA. DTilley@TWU.edu
Tilton
Abigail
A
Sandel
Mark
M
D000328:Adult; D057179:Advanced Practice Nursing; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D039721:Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009733:Nursing Diagnosis; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012307:Risk Factors; D013179:Spouse Abuse / Q000523:psychology*; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology