Choking on the Truth: The EMS Role in Identifying Strangulation in Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence is one of the most dangerous situations for first responders and, in many cases, is a potential crime scene. Strangulation has been identified as one of the most lethal forms of domestic violence with devastating psychological effects and a potentially fatal outcome. Often leaving no physical marks, it is imperative that first responders can identify strangulation signs and symptoms. When domestic violence perpetrators attempt to choke their victim, it is often considered the “last warning shot” before homicide.
Objectives:
- discuss the prevalence of strangulation in domestic violence incidents and its serious consequences.
- list various signs and symptoms found during an exam of a patient who has been strangled.
- identify scene concerns for first responders during strangulation and domestic violence calls.
- explain how prolonged exposure to abuse can manifest in medical symptoms.
- describe key points to include on a patient care report narrative regarding a domestic violence incident.