MULTIPROFESSIONAL ASSISTANCE TO THE WOMAN WHO IS A VICTIM OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: THE PROFESSIONALS’ FUNCTIONING AND THE DIFFICULTIES FOUND

Abstract

The aim was to identify the role of the professionals acting in a service of excellence for women who are victims of domestic violence, and to describe the difficulties found. This descriptive and qualitative study was undertaken in a center of excellence in treating victims of violence, in Fortaleza-Ceará, between September and October 2009. Interviews were held with 20 professionals working in this service; their data was collected and analyzed in line with the technique of analysis of narratives. The results show that the women followed a route of attendance via the multidisciplinary team, with the assistance of professionals from the elementary, middle and higher levels. The professionals emphasized various obstacles related to the re-socialization of the victims, their refusal to accept psychological follow-up, and the scarcity of human resources. The need is emphasized for greater interaction of the healthcare network with the services of excellence, providing emotional and social restructuring of the woman who is the victim of violence.

Keywords

• Women's health
• Domestic violence
• Patient care team