Which screening tool is used to assess for abuse in patients?

Which screening tool is used to assess for abuse in patients?

• A. MMSE
• B. GAD-7
• C. PHQ-9
• D. Woman Abuse Screening Tool (WAST)

Answer: (D)

Screening for abuse in patients relies on a tool specifically designed to detect domestic or intimate partner violence. The Woman Abuse Screening Tool is designed for this purpose, with brief questions that help clinicians identify if a patient may be experiencing physical, emotional, or sexual abuse by a partner and prompt safety planning and referrals. In contrast, the MMSE assesses cognitive function and memory, the GAD-7 screens for generalized anxiety disorder, and the PHQ-9 screens for depressive symptoms.

Screening for abuse in patients relies on a tool specifically designed to detect domestic or intimate partner violence. The Woman Abuse Screening Tool is designed for this purpose, with brief questions that help clinicians identify if a patient may be experiencing physical, emotional, or sexual abuse by a partner and prompt safety planning and referrals.

In contrast, the MMSE assesses cognitive function and memory, the GAD-7 screens for generalized anxiety disorder, and the PHQ-9 screens for depressive symptoms.