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Family Medicine 20: 28-year-old female with lower
abdominal pain
User: Daniela Fernandez
Email: [email protected]
Date: February 24, 2021 11:32PM
Learning Objectives
The student should be able to:
Conduct a culturally sensitive, empathic history.
Appreciate the ways in which victims of violence may manifest
symptoms and be alert to clues a patient may give that he/she
has been a victim of intimate partner violence.
Discuss ways to assist the patient in developing a safety plan.
Discuss reporting requirements for intimate partner violence.
Appreciate a survivor’s perspective in an abusive relationship
and the barriers to his/her seeking help.
Apply knowledge of the differential diagnosis of lower
abdominal and pelvic pain in evaluating the patient.
Knowledge
Significance of the Location of Lower Abdominal Pain
The location of the abdominal pain is important, as it can help
narrow your differential diagnosis. For example, diffuse
abdominal
pain may represent gastroenteritis, whereas localized right
lower quadrant pain is classic for but not limited to
appendicitis. Think
about what is in the various quadrants of the abdomen when
considering the differential diagnosis of abdominal pain.
Red Flags of Life-Threatening Condition in Patient with Lower
Abdominal/Pelvic Pain
There are many signs and symptoms of a life-threatening
condition in a patient with abdominal or pelvic pain. Examples
include:
Abrupt onset of severe pain
Shock with hypotension and tachycardia
Distension
Peritoneal irritation signs
Rigid abdomen
Pulsatile abdominal mass
Absent bowel sounds
Fever
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Weight loss
Menstrual changes
Trauma, prior surgeries, or operative scars
History/presence of blood in emesis
History/presence of blood in stool
Severity of the pain
Ecchymoses/bruising
Rebound tenderness
Mass or ascites
Obstetrical History
G Gravida or number of pregnancies
T Number of Term pregnancies
P Number of Preterm infants
A Number of spontaneous or inducedAbortions
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L Number of Living children
Documenting Follow-Up and Lab Reporting
Documentation of attempts to schedule follow-up visits and
inform patients of laboratory results is very important. Failure
to reach
a patient by phone or mail should also be documented. If a
provider is unable to reach a patient about an important test
result
(e.g. an abnormal Pap smear), reaching out to emergency
contacts and sending a certified letter should be done to
document
every effort to reach a patient.
Abdominal Pain History
Location
Quality
Severity
Timing
Aggravating factors and alleviating factors
Some Common Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain Presenting in
Primary Care
Constipation: Patients may give a history of having small, hard
pellets for stools, decreased frequency of stooling, harder stools
than usual, or occasionally having loose stools, which may
actually signify an impaction, where the patient has soft stool
leaking
around an impacted hard stool. This type of stooling pattern is
more often associated with irritable bowel syndrome.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Many patients will describe
abdominal pains of varying location, associated with either soft,
frequent, loose stools, or constipation, or an alternating stool
pattern. They may also describe abdominal bloating, increased
flatulence, and mucus in the stool. The symptoms of IBS are
frequently worse when the patient is under stress, anxious, or
depressed. Symptoms of IBS can be brought on initially by a
case of gastroenteritis and can be aggravated by stress, diet, and
change in activity—and the symptoms are often unpredictable.
Caffeine and dairy products can make symptoms worse. The
diagnosis is based on clinical history, physical exam, and
absence of alarming symptoms suggesting other pathology.
The Rome IV criteria is often used to aid diagnosis of adult
IBS:
Recurrent abdominal pain, on average ≥ 1 day per week in past
3 months with two or more of following features:
1. Related to defecation
2. Associated with change in stool frequency
3. Associated with change in stool form (appearance)
Endometriosis: Patients with endometriosis may begin to notice
increasingly more painful and heavier menstrual cycles as early
as late adolescence. A patient with endometriosis might indeed
have lower abdominal discomfort, often starting after ovulation
during most cycles and continuing through their menstrual
cycle. There may also be low back pain or painful stooling. It is
not
uncommon for a patient with endometriosis to experience pain
with intercourse. Ultrasounds or MRIs may be needed in order
to
help diagnose the problem. Laparoscopy may be needed to
definitively diagnose, treat, or alleviate symptoms. Hormonal
contraception often stops the pain and the process, thus
preserving the patient’s ability to become pregnant later.
Genetic factors
are often involved.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Patients with IBD usually
have some combination of abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, and
frequent stooling. The onset of symptoms frequently occurs in
the late 20s or early 30s. The patient may ultimately be
diagnosed
with either ulcerative colitis or Crohn Disease. Diagnosis is
made through specific radiological findings on barium enema,
small
bowel follow-through, and by colonoscopy.
Muscular pain or musculoskeletal pain is generally
reproducible. On exam, there is usually point tenderness to
palpation of
the affected muscles. The pain may recur during certain
activities or when the offending position is (re)assumed.
Psychosomatic pain: Symptoms from this type of pain are
variable and can be associated with or aggravated by other
etiologies
such as IBS or gastritis. The pains can occur anywhere
throughout the abdomen. They usually present as an atypical
pain pattern,
occur in a depressed or otherwise mentally ill patient, and may
point toward a psychogenic cause. This is a diagnosis of
exclusion.
Stress: The patient's symptoms and pains tend to be increased
when the patient is under increased stress or is involved in other
negative interactions. The patient may present with a whole
constellation of other stress-related symptoms, such as
headache,
depression, anxiety, appetite changes, and sleep disorders.
Stress can also aggravate other conditions, such as irritable
bowel
syndrome. This diagnosis, which is related to psychosomatic
disease, is one of exclusion.
Urinary tract infection (UTI): Symptoms may include lower
abdominal or suprapubic pain, urinary frequency, burning with
urination (dysuria) that is frequently worse at the end of the
urinary stream (terminal dysuria) and which can also involve
hematuria. There may even be lower back pain in severe
infections that involve the kidney. Among patients with female
genitalia,
the onset of symptoms may be related to recent sexual
intercourse. UTI is a common condition and should always be
considered
in patients with lower abdominal pain.
Vaginitis: The patient's symptoms and concerns will vary
depending on the cause of the discharge. She can present with a
vaginal discharge that is watery to pasty; it may be malodorous;
discomfort can vary from itching to burning, and there may or
may not be pain with intercourse (dyspareunia) and pelvic pain.
Being at risk for sexually transmitted infections widens the
differential, and the use, or lack thereof, and the type of
contraceptive used impacts that risk. An expanded history is
needed in
this case. Examination of the discharge under the microscope,
or sending a vaginal swab and cervical cultures to the lab, is
generally required.
© 2021 Aquifer 2/8
Intimate Partner Violence: Screening Recommendations,
Prevalence, and Complications
Screening recommendations:
The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology suggests
screening all patients who come to them (family planning
patients,
all ob-gyn patients, and all prenatal patients) at first visit, at
each trimester, and at the postpartum visit. It may help to
preface
asking such questions with a statement such as: "Because
intimate partner violence (IPV) is so common, I ask all of my
patients
about this..."
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)
recommends that clinicians screen women of childbearing age
for IPV, such as
domestic violence, and provide or refer women who screen
positive to intervention services. (Level of Evidence: B)
This is routinely done at annual exams or when red flags are
present.
Here is a good resource regarding screening for intimate partner
violence.
Prevalence:
It is important to be aware of IPV when addressing our patients,
as approximately 25% of women in the U.S. report being
victimized by an intimate partner at some point in their lifetime.
While the majority of IPV victims are women, they can be any
gender, occur in both heterosexual and same-sex relationships,
and across all socioeconomic, age, and ethnic divides.
Complications:
In addition to the trauma incurred, the rates of chronic
disease—including heart disease, diabetes, depression, and
suicide—are
significantly higher in victims as well as in adults who were
victimized as children as a result of direct abuse and exposure
to IPV.
Symptoms and Conditions Experienced More Frequently by
Victims of IPV Red Flags for Intimate
Partner Violence
Individuals who were victimized by their intimate partner are
more likely to experience:
Migraines, frequent headaches
Chronic pain syndrome
Heart and blood pressure problems
Arthritis
Stomach ulcers, frequent indigestion, diarrhea, constipation,
irritable bowel syndrome, spastic colon
Pain during sex (dyspareunia), dysmenorrhea, vaginitis, pelvic
inflammatory disease, chronic pelvic pain syndrome, and
other gynecological diagnoses
Invasive cervical cancer and preinvasive cervical neoplasia
Depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress
Unexplained or poorly explained findings on physical exam
Red flags for intimate partner violence include:
Delay in seeking medical care
Non-compliance with treatment plan
Partner insisting on staying close and answering questions
directed to patient
Hesitancy or not answering questions or inconsistent or
incorrect answers given to questions
Shyness or reticence in answering questions
Explanation of problem or incident does not match severity of
findings
Facilitating Discussion About Intimate Partner Violence
There are several nonjudgmental ways to ask about intimate
partner violence. Examples include:
"Do you feel safe at home?"
"Because violence is so common, and there are so many forms
of violence, I am asking all my patients about it. Is anyone
now or has anyone in the past hurt you emotionally, physically,
or sexually. Is anyone threatening you?"
"All couples disagree at sometime. What happens when you
disagree/fight/argue?"
"Does your partner ever force you to do things you do not want
to do or keep you from doing things you want to do?"
"How do you handle money issues in your relationship?"
"I often see the type of symptoms that you have in people who
are being hurt at home or in a relationship. Do you think that
this might be happening to you?"
There are lots of things you can do to facilitate discussion about
IPV.
Ask screening
questions
Many clinics will ask a screening question of all patients during
the triage process. Asking the patient, "Do you
feel safe at home?" follows the vital signs and questions about
whether or not the patient is having any pain.
This open-ended question allows the patient to share
information they might have about feeling unsafe at
home, in their neighborhood, or where they live, work, or shop,
or feeling threatened or actually being abused
by someone. This question is appropriate for any age, gender, or
socioeconomic class. It may take several
visits for the patient to feel comfortable enough with the
provider to discuss such a sensitive issue.
Create a safe
setting
Hang posters on the clinic walls and place brochures about
safety, particularly in private areas like bathrooms
and exam rooms. These should also contain information
addressing cultural differences and acknowledging
varied relationships and backgrounds.
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Interview the
patient alone
Never interview with the suspected perpetrator present. In order
to have the partner leave the room, you can
cite protocols such as, "I always do this part of the exam just
with the patient. You can join us again when we
are done." Or, "I begin the visit with the patient alone. If you
have questions after, we can meet together."
If the partner insists, then attempt to separate the two by taking
the patient to obtain a urine sample or
another test outside of the exam room.
Infants and toddlers three years old or younger can stay with the
parent, but it is recommended that if the
child/children accompanying the parent are older than three,
you should meet with the patient alone.
Ensure
confidentiality
Update and review HIPAA forms and make sure that all staff
are aware of how to use them. Be sure to tell the
patient that anything discussed in the room will not be shared
with anyone not directly involved with their
care, including their partner and family members.
Direct
assessment
Interviewing can begin with indirect questions such as, "Tell me
about your relationship," but should include a
direct assessment of safety, including questions regarding
weapons in the house and danger or possible harm
to the children or pets.
Know your local
laws
All states require reporting of child abuse and some require
reporting of intimate partner violence. Be open
with your patient about your legal constraints.
Facilitate
impartiality
Consider using a telephone service for interpretation if an
appropriate professional interpreter is not present in
the office. Do not use a friend or relative.
Listen
nonjudgmentally Validate the patient's concerns and the fact
that abuse is not the fault of the victim.
Handling Children During a Sensitive History and Exam
It is generally preferred to have children outside the room
during a pelvic or genital exam of the parent. Depending on the
age of
the child, some parents may prefer to have the child sit in the
room in a corner and face away from the exam table, or keep a
sleeping child in a stroller in the room with them. The clinician
may have sensitive questions to ask; the parent-patient may not
want the child to see them undressed and undergoing this exam.
There is frequently someone on staff who will watch or
entertain the child or children during this portion of the exam.
Or the
parent may have come to the clinic with a friend or relative with
whom the child can stay in the waiting room during that portion
of the visit.
It is also important to have a chaperone in the room for the
exam for legal reasons and for protection of the clinical staff.
This
person should be named in the chart note.
Symptoms of Exposure to Domestic Violence in Children and
Adolescents
Obvious physical signs of physical or sexual abuse
Behavioral or emotional problems, such as increased
aggression, increased fear or anxiety, difficulty sleeping or
eating, or
other signs of emotional distress
Chronic somatic concerns
30% to 60% of perpetrators of intimate partner violence also
abuse children in the household.
Intimate Partner Violence Safety Assessment
1. Increasing severity of violence
2. Presence of gun in the house
3. Threats to kill or commit suicide by either victim or abuser
4. Use of drugs or alcohol by victim or abuser
5. Victim trying to leave or left recently
6. Harm to children
Increasing Severity of Intimate Partner Violence
1. Verbal abuse, insults, yelling
2. Throwing things, punching wall
3. Pushing victim or throwing things at victim
4. Slapping
5. Kicking, biting
6. Hitting with closed fist
7. Attempting strangulation
8. Beating up; punching with repeated blows
© 2021 Aquifer 4/8
9. Threatening with weapon
10. Assault with weapon
Escalating Cycle of Intimate Partner Violence
Intimate partner violence is a pattern of increasing episodes of
violence in which one partner exerts control over another
through
intimidation, physical and/or emotional violence, and threats. It
is common for there to be a tension-building phase, a crisis
phase
when overt violence is likely to occur, followed by a calmer
phase when the abuser might ask for forgiveness and even be
affectionate. Unfortunately, in most cases, the cycle begins
again and often the violence is increasingly severe.
Documenting a Case of Suspected Intimate Partner Violence
When documenting a history of abusive behavior, use the
patient's own words in quotes and fill in names after pronouns
are used.
Example: "then he (John Smith)…". Use neutral language.
Example: "patient states", not "patient alleges," which may give
a false
impression of disbelief.
Give a detailed description of the patient's appearance,
behavioral indicators, injuries and stages of healing, and health
conditions. If the patient consents, use photos to document
injuries; one with a face included in the photo, and then close-
ups of
the injury. If photos are not possible, draw and describe injuries
on a body map in blue ink as this is difficult to alter/reproduce.
Document recommendations for support and follow-up as well
as materials given to the patient.
Document abuse history as reported by patient in the subjective.
The subjective section is meant to document the patient's
experience and verification is not applicable. Include any
laboratory and radiology tests ordered with results to maintain a
complete record for the patient. Document results of health and
safety assessments and plans for follow-up as well as referrals
and materials given to the patient. Document recommendations
for support. If the patient was referred for a post-rape exam,
document the referral site. Maintain strict confidentiality and
safeguard the chart rather than limit the contents for best care
practices.
Clinical Skills
Adequately Addressing Your Patient's Needs Within Time
Constraints
It is a common scenario to see a patient that is scheduled for an
acute visit, but the situation requires more time to be adequately
addressed. Prioritize the most acute or high risk issues raised
during this visit and focus on these, and then emphasize the
importance of follow-up and schedule a follow-up visit as soon
as possible.
Management
The Role of the Health Care Provider in the Care of a Victim of
Intimate Partner Violence
Acknowledge
the abuse
and health
implications
It is important to acknowledge the abuse, recognize the health
implications, and share this with your patient.
Support your
patient's
decisions
While you may not always agree with the decisions your patient
makes to stay or escape, it is important that you
support their decisions. They have a greater understanding of
the complexity of the problem, and have more
information on which to base their actions.
Address
safety issues
Address the level of risk and safety issues for your patient.
Provide information for them to go to a safe haven if
needed. As lack of a telephone or computer (or monitoring of
their use) often make it unsafe or impossible for
victims to contact IPV resources from home, it is important not
only to give contact information to the patient, but
also to offer a means for them to contact services while in your
office. One should be aware that the person inflicting
the violence might check the patient's/victim's phone and
computer for recent phone calls, website visits, and
emails.
Practice
cultural
sensitivity
Cultural differences can give the appearance of abuse, be
accepting of practices some might consider abusive, and
can inhibit the ability to interview or support a victim.
Practicing sensitivity in caring for patients from different
backgrounds is key to a supportive patient-clinician
relationship.
Consider
impact of
abuse on
children and
other
vulnerable
When children or other vulnerable persons who are less able to
make decisions on their own behalf are in the home,
consideration must be given to the impact of the abuse on them
physically and mentally as well as their safety.
Even in states where reporting abuse towards a domestic partner
is not mandated, the impact or abuse on a child or
other vulnerable person may be and will supersede the desires
of the victim to not alert social services.
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parties
It is not possible for a clinician to solve the problem of IPV for
an individual. Statistically, the most dangerous time for a
victim is
when they escape an abusive relationship. While it is hard to
accept, sometimes it may be safer for a victim to stay with the
perpetrator. Clinicians are not in a position to stop the abuse.
You can make recommendations in terms of decreasing the
victim's
level of risk by providing resources to the patient, limiting
access to weapons, and developing an escape plan with a
victim's
advocate. Safety planning takes time and expertise. While some
clinicians will take the time to be trained to be effective at this,
it
is probably best to utilize experts who are associated with IPV
agencies if available or to train a staff member to serve this
role.
Reporting
Reporting laws differ from state to state, so you need to know
what the laws are where you are working. Whenever a child is
abused as a result of IPV, either intentionally or
unintentionally, state law requires health care providers to
report this abuse to
child protection services. Mandated reporters would also report
any high-risk situation of IPV in which children are at risk.
However, state laws are less clear about whether exposure to
IPV in the absence of injury or serious risk of injury to the
child
would require a report to children's protective services.
In some states, stringent rules/laws require mandated reporters
to notify child protection services whenever a child is in the
home
and has been exposed to a parent's abuse, whether or not the
child has been directly abused. Proponents of this definition
point to
the ample documentation of the overlap between adult IPV and
child abuse and the adverse psychological effects on children
who
witness IPV. Opponents of this policy believe it penalizes
women for abuse that they have no control over and may
discourage
women from seeking help. It also could elevate the level of risk
for the victim.
In other states, a child's exposure to IPV does not automatically
require a mandatory child protection report. The provider has
wider discretion to assess whether a child has been directly
involved and what other factors may exist to put the child at
risk. In
these states, a provider would take into account the existence of
direct injury to a child, the potential danger of the situation, and
the capacity of the mother to keep her children safe in deciding
whether to notify Child Protective Services (CPS).
The rules for victims who are adults and are not disabled vary
dramatically from state to state, from mandatory reporting for
evidence of abuse to reporting only if the victim asks the
clinician to do so. Contact your local Domestic Violence
helpline and ask
what the rules are for the community in which you work. You
can find out about your local resources by calling the National
DV
Hotline at (800) 799-SAFE, TTY (800) 787-3224.
Studies
Recommended Studies for Evaluation of Lower Abdominal Pai n
Pap test—
thin prep Recommended in the setting of previous abnormal
results.
KOH/saline
wet prep
This is a quick test which should be done as it could indicate
inflammation (white blood cells) or diagnose
trichomonas, bacterial vaginosis, or yeast vaginitis.
Chlamydia /
gonorrhea
DNA probe
Chlamydia and gonorrhea can present with a yellow discharge,
abdominal pain, and dyspareunia. This is the
preferred method for diagnosis of chlamydia and gonorrhea
because both can be performed using the same
sample, and the sample can be endocervical, urethral, vaginal,
oral, or urine.
Urine
dipstick Helpful to rule out a urinary tract infection (UTI).
Urine
pregnancy
test
Should be performed on any patient who is physically able to be
pregnant.
RPR Should be done as part of the STI screen to rule out
syphilis.
HIV Should be done as part of the STI screen.
HPV Consider ordering a reflex HPV. Reflex refers to the fact
that an abnormal Pap will automatically be tested for HPV.If the
Pap is normal, the HPV testing will not be done.
Pelvic
ultrasound
The pelvic exam, urine pregnancy test, and STI testing will help
guide the need for an ultrasound to evaluate a
possible pelvic mass, the size of uterus and ovaries, to confirm
the location of a pregnancy, or to rule out an
inflammatory or infectious process.
Colposcopy Colposcopy is not indicated until the results of the
Pap are back. If the Pap is abnormal, and/or if high-risk HPV
ispositive, a colposcopy may be indicated. Follow the ASCCP
guidelines for follow up of abnormal PAP
© 2021 Aquifer 6/8
Gonorrhea
culture
While this is a good test for gonorrhea, a separate test needs to
be done on vaginal or urine samples. However,
this is still the preferred method for sexual assault tests, for
tests of cure, and for oral and rectal specimen.
HCG beta sub This is generally not indicated because of the
sensitivity of the urine pregnancy test. If the results of the
urinepregnancy test were inconclusive, a blood test such as
HCG Beta Sub would be needed.
Clinical Reasoning
Severe / Life-Threatening Causes of Abdominal Pain
Appendicitis
Patients with appendicitis often start with visceral pain that is
dull and in the periumbilical region; within a short
time the pain classically localizes; presentation is usually of
fairly acute onset with moderate to severe right
lower quadrant pain. There is often a history of nausea and/or
vomiting. There are usually some changes in the
patient's bowel movements.
Ectopic
pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency. Early medical
treatment reduces the need for surgery, but if the
fallopian tube is in danger of rupture, surgical intervention may
be necessary. Patients present with divergent
symptoms ranging from no pain and normal menses to intense
pain and irregular or absent menses. A good
history, the physical exam and lab testing (always get a
pregnancy test if the patient has a uterus) are crucial for
this diagnosis. Imaging is also usually needed. You need the
date of the patient's last menstrual period (LMP), her
menstrual history, most recent intercourse dates, the types of
contraception used currently and used in the past
/ever used, history of any vaginal or pelvic infections, and
history of previous ectopic or normal pregnancies.
Endometriosis
While endometriosis is not typically life-threatening, it can be
severe. The majority of patients are of reproductive
age and present with cyclical pelvic pain, following the
menstrual cycle in patients with regular menses. The
location and pattern of the pain can vary widely, depending
upon which organs have been affected. For example,
those with bladder involvement may present with urinary
frequency, urgency or dysuria. Endometriosis may also
present as infertility in an otherwise asymptomatic patient or as
an incidental finding during surgery.
Ovarian
pathology
Patients with ovarian problems generally have lower abdominal
or pelvic pain. Pain from ovarian torsion or
ruptured cyst or ectopic pregnancy may be very severe and
usually has a sudden onset. Patients often present to
the emergency department due to the pain, and this is
appropriate since imaging is usually necessary to
determine the exact cause of the pain. In several cases, the pain
from ovarian problems may persist for several
weeks. It is often aggravated by intercourse or strenuous
activity.
Pelvic
inflammatory
disease
Patients with pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) might have
abdominal or pelvic pain, which is worse with sexual
intercourse or with activities such as running or jumping, which
cause jarring of the pelvic organs. This diagnosis
has significant morbidity, which increases with the severity of
the disease and with the length of time to
diagnosis. Studies show that approximately one in four patients
who had a single episode of PID later
experienced tubal infertility, chronic pelvic pain, or an ectopic
pregnancy, as a result of scarring and adhesions.
Tubal adhesions leading to infertility have been reported to
occur in 33% of patients after their first episode of
PID, and up to 50% after the second pelvic infection.
Normal
pregnancy
Patients who have normal pregnancies may experience some
lower abdominal discomfort or pain as the uterus
undergoes normal growth. This is more a diagnosis of
exclusion, but you would not want to miss a pregnancy.
Certain medications should not be given to patients who are
pregnant. Fetuses should not be exposed to
radiation.
Trauma
A careful history is important in regard to trauma. Be aware of
the patient's body language and response to
touch. Consider the consistency of the history with the exam.
Have the patient undress and examine the patient
thoroughly in a gown so that all areas can be visualized.
Consider taking a photograph of any injuries and bruises
if there is a way to appropriately attach them to the patient's
medical record, and if the patient gives consent.
References
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
Sexual Misconduct. https://www.acog.org/Clinical-Guidance-
and-
Publications/Committee-Opinions/Committee-on-Ethics/Sexual-
Misconduct Accessed June 9, 2020.
American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology.
Updated Consensus Guidelines for Managing Abnormal
Cervical Cancer
Screening Tests and Cancer Precursors. Updated 2013. Accessed
February 8, 2020.
Cartwright SL, Knudson MP. Evaluation of acute abdominal
pain in adults. Am Fam Physician. 2008;77(7):971‐ 8.
Connor VF. Essure: a review six years later. J Minim Invasive
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Dicola D, Spaar E. Intimate Partner Violence. Am Fam
Physician. 2016;94(8):646‐ 51.
© 2021 Aquifer 7/8
https://www.acog.org/Clinical-Guidance-and-
Publications/Committee-Opinions/Committee-on-Ethics/Sexual-
Misconduct
http://www.asccp.org/Assets/51b17a58-7af9-4667-879a-
3ff48472d6dc/635912165077730000/asccp-management-
guidelines-august-2014-pdf
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18441863/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19423060/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27929227/
Edelson, J.L. (1999). "The Overlap Between Child Maltreatment
and Woman Battering." Violence Against Women. 1999;5:134-
54.
Family Violence Prevention Fund. Compendium of State
Statutes and Policies on Domestic Violence and Health Care.
Produced 2010.
Accessed June 9, 2020.
Futures Without Violence (formerly The Family Violence
Prevention Fund). First Printing: September, 2002. Updated:
2020. Accessed
February 8, 2020.
Futures Without Violence. The Facts on Domestic, Dating and
Sexual Violence. Released 2009. Accessed February 8, 2020.
Futures Without Violence. The Facts on Women, Children and
Gun Violence. Released 2013. Accessed February 8, 2020.
Futures Without Violence. The Health Care Costs of Domestic
and Sexual Violence. Updated March 2010. Accessed February
8, 2020.
Hatcher RA et al. Contraceptive Technology 19th edition,
Ardent Media, 2007.
http://www.contraceptivetechnology.org/table.html.
Accessed February 8, 2020.
Institute for Clinical Systems Improvement (ICSI). Initial
management of abnormal cervical cytology (Pap smear) and
HPV testing.
Algorithm. Bloomington (MN): Institute for Clinical Systems
Improvement (ICSI); Oct 2008;32:63. Accessed February 8,
2020.
Katz VL et al, Infections of the Upper Genital Tract:
Endometritis, Acute and Chronic Salpingitis In: Comprehensive
Gynecology, 5th
edition. Philadelphia, PA: Mosby; 2007.
Marsicano E, Vuong GM, Prather CM. Gastrointestinal causes
of abdominal pain. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am.
2014;41(3):465-89.
National Consensus Guidelines on Identifying and Responding
to Domestic Violence Victimization in Health Care Settings.
Produced by
The Family Violence Prevention Fund, 383 Rhode Island Street,
Suite 304, San Francisco, CA 94103-5133. (415) 252-8900.
TTY (800)
595-4889. First Printing: September, 2002. Updated: February,
2004.
Planned Parenthood Interactive website. Birth Control Methods
and Options | Types of Birth Control. Accessed February 8,
2020.
Shian B, Larson ST. Abdominal Wall Pain: Clinical Evaluation,
Differential Diagnosis, and Treatment. Am Fam Physician.
2018;98(7):429-36.
Silverman JG, Decker MR, Reed E, Raj A. Intimate partner
violence victimization prior to and during pregnancy among
women residing
in 26 U.S. states: associations with maternal and neonatal
health. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2006;195(1):140‐ 8.
Trigg BG, Kerndt PR, Aynalem G. Sexually transmitted
infections and pelvic inflammatory disease in women. Med Clin
North Am.
2008;92(5):1083‐ 113.
Wet Mount. Military Obstetricts & Gynecology.
http://www.brooksidepress.org/Products/Military_OBGYN/Text
book/Discharge/WetMount.htm Accessed June 9, 2020.
Your Birth Control Choices. Reproductive Health Access
Project. http://www.reproductiveaccess.org/wp-
content/uploads/2014/06/contra_choices.pdf. Updated February
2020. Accessed February 8, 2020.
© 2021 Aquifer 8/8
https://www.acf.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/fysb/state_compendi
um.pdf
http://www.futureswithoutviolence.org
http://www.futureswithoutviolence.org/userfiles/file/Children_a
nd_Families/DomesticViolence.pdf
http://www.futureswithoutviolence.org/userfiles/Gun Fact
Sheet_FINAL 03 03 13.pdf
http://www.futureswithoutviolence.org/userfiles/file/HealthCare
/Health_Care_Costs_of_Domestic_and_Sexual_Violence.pdf
http://www.contraceptivetechnology.org/table.html
http://guideline.gov/algorithm/6755/NGC-6755_1.html
https://europepmc.org/article/med/25155126
https://www.futureswithoutviolence.org/userfiles/file/Consensus
.pdf
http://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-topics/birth-control-
4211.htm
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30252418/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16813751/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18721654/
http://www.brooksidepress.org/Products/ Military_OBGYN/Text
book/Discharge/WetMount.htm.
http://www.reproductiveaccess.org/wp-
content/uploads/2014/06/contra_choices.pdfFamily Medicine
20: 28-year-old female with lower abdominal painLearning
ObjectivesKnowledgeSignificance of the Location of Lower
Abdominal PainRed Flags of Life-Threatening Condition in
Patient with Lower Abdominal/Pelvic PainObstetrical
HistoryDocumenting Follow-Up and Lab ReportingAbdominal
Pain HistorySome Common Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain
Presenting in Primary CareIntimate Partner Violence: Screening
Recommendations, Prevalence, and ComplicationsSymptoms
and Conditions Experienced More Frequently by Victims of IPV
Red Flags for Intimate Partner ViolenceFacilitating Discussion
About Intimate Partner ViolenceHandling Children During a
Sensitive History and ExamSymptoms of Exposure to Domestic
Violence in Children and AdolescentsIntimate Partner Violence
Safety AssessmentIncreasing Severity of Intimate Partner
ViolenceEscalating Cycle of Intimate Partner
ViolenceDocumenting a Case of Suspected Intimate Partner
ViolenceClinical SkillsAdequately Addressing Your Patient's
Needs Within Time ConstraintsManagementThe Role of the
Health Care Provider in the Care of a Victim of Intimate Partner
ViolenceStudiesRecommended Studies for Evaluation of Lower
Abdominal PainClinical ReasoningSevere / Life-Threatening
Causes of Abdominal PainReferences
Assignment requirements
Read “Case 6: Fixer Upper: Expanding the Magnolia Brand” in
your Connect textbook.
Evaluate Magnolia Brands’ sustainable competitive advantage
by analyzing the case study and answering the following
questions in 350 to 525 words:
· How will the components of the external environment impact
Magnolia Brands’ ability to realize their vision?
· Who are Magnolia Brands’ major competitors?
· What other factors are affecting the growth of Magnolia
Brands?
· What internal factors must be considered for Magnolia Brands
to achieve its vision and mission?
· What are some of Magnolia Brands’ strengths and
weaknesses?
· How does the new show represent an opportunity in the home
remodeling industry?
· What challenges or threats might Magnolia Brand face?
· What measurements can be used to determine if the new show
is successful?
· What is the feasibility of the ability of Magnolia Brands to
continue to be successful? Why?
Read Case 8.3: Speaking Out about Malt, located on page 311 in
your textbook. Determine whether Mary acted irresponsibly or
disloyally in your opinion. Describe the actions that you think
Mary should take next. Explain what you would do if you were
in Mary’s position.

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Family Medicine 20 28-year-old female with lowerabdominal p

  • 1. Family Medicine 20: 28-year-old female with lower abdominal pain User: Daniela Fernandez Email: [email protected] Date: February 24, 2021 11:32PM Learning Objectives The student should be able to: Conduct a culturally sensitive, empathic history. Appreciate the ways in which victims of violence may manifest symptoms and be alert to clues a patient may give that he/she has been a victim of intimate partner violence. Discuss ways to assist the patient in developing a safety plan. Discuss reporting requirements for intimate partner violence. Appreciate a survivor’s perspective in an abusive relationship and the barriers to his/her seeking help. Apply knowledge of the differential diagnosis of lower abdominal and pelvic pain in evaluating the patient. Knowledge Significance of the Location of Lower Abdominal Pain The location of the abdominal pain is important, as it can help narrow your differential diagnosis. For example, diffuse abdominal pain may represent gastroenteritis, whereas localized right lower quadrant pain is classic for but not limited to appendicitis. Think about what is in the various quadrants of the abdomen when
  • 2. considering the differential diagnosis of abdominal pain. Red Flags of Life-Threatening Condition in Patient with Lower Abdominal/Pelvic Pain There are many signs and symptoms of a life-threatening condition in a patient with abdominal or pelvic pain. Examples include: Abrupt onset of severe pain Shock with hypotension and tachycardia Distension Peritoneal irritation signs Rigid abdomen Pulsatile abdominal mass Absent bowel sounds Fever Vomiting Diarrhea Weight loss Menstrual changes Trauma, prior surgeries, or operative scars History/presence of blood in emesis History/presence of blood in stool Severity of the pain Ecchymoses/bruising Rebound tenderness Mass or ascites Obstetrical History G Gravida or number of pregnancies T Number of Term pregnancies P Number of Preterm infants
  • 3. A Number of spontaneous or inducedAbortions © 2021 Aquifer 1/8 https://medu-relier- production.s3.amazonaws.com/files/fmCASES-20- P8RnpR9SYHNlXTWDD- avft7Ybug9ynLQTwQX8p10NgVKur6rUer/compressed/images/ 242770.jpg L Number of Living children Documenting Follow-Up and Lab Reporting Documentation of attempts to schedule follow-up visits and inform patients of laboratory results is very important. Failure to reach a patient by phone or mail should also be documented. If a provider is unable to reach a patient about an important test result (e.g. an abnormal Pap smear), reaching out to emergency contacts and sending a certified letter should be done to document every effort to reach a patient. Abdominal Pain History Location Quality Severity Timing Aggravating factors and alleviating factors Some Common Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain Presenting in Primary Care
  • 4. Constipation: Patients may give a history of having small, hard pellets for stools, decreased frequency of stooling, harder stools than usual, or occasionally having loose stools, which may actually signify an impaction, where the patient has soft stool leaking around an impacted hard stool. This type of stooling pattern is more often associated with irritable bowel syndrome. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Many patients will describe abdominal pains of varying location, associated with either soft, frequent, loose stools, or constipation, or an alternating stool pattern. They may also describe abdominal bloating, increased flatulence, and mucus in the stool. The symptoms of IBS are frequently worse when the patient is under stress, anxious, or depressed. Symptoms of IBS can be brought on initially by a case of gastroenteritis and can be aggravated by stress, diet, and change in activity—and the symptoms are often unpredictable. Caffeine and dairy products can make symptoms worse. The diagnosis is based on clinical history, physical exam, and absence of alarming symptoms suggesting other pathology. The Rome IV criteria is often used to aid diagnosis of adult IBS: Recurrent abdominal pain, on average ≥ 1 day per week in past 3 months with two or more of following features: 1. Related to defecation 2. Associated with change in stool frequency 3. Associated with change in stool form (appearance) Endometriosis: Patients with endometriosis may begin to notice increasingly more painful and heavier menstrual cycles as early as late adolescence. A patient with endometriosis might indeed have lower abdominal discomfort, often starting after ovulation during most cycles and continuing through their menstrual cycle. There may also be low back pain or painful stooling. It is not
  • 5. uncommon for a patient with endometriosis to experience pain with intercourse. Ultrasounds or MRIs may be needed in order to help diagnose the problem. Laparoscopy may be needed to definitively diagnose, treat, or alleviate symptoms. Hormonal contraception often stops the pain and the process, thus preserving the patient’s ability to become pregnant later. Genetic factors are often involved. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Patients with IBD usually have some combination of abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, and frequent stooling. The onset of symptoms frequently occurs in the late 20s or early 30s. The patient may ultimately be diagnosed with either ulcerative colitis or Crohn Disease. Diagnosis is made through specific radiological findings on barium enema, small bowel follow-through, and by colonoscopy. Muscular pain or musculoskeletal pain is generally reproducible. On exam, there is usually point tenderness to palpation of the affected muscles. The pain may recur during certain activities or when the offending position is (re)assumed. Psychosomatic pain: Symptoms from this type of pain are variable and can be associated with or aggravated by other etiologies such as IBS or gastritis. The pains can occur anywhere throughout the abdomen. They usually present as an atypical pain pattern, occur in a depressed or otherwise mentally ill patient, and may point toward a psychogenic cause. This is a diagnosis of exclusion. Stress: The patient's symptoms and pains tend to be increased when the patient is under increased stress or is involved in other negative interactions. The patient may present with a whole constellation of other stress-related symptoms, such as
  • 6. headache, depression, anxiety, appetite changes, and sleep disorders. Stress can also aggravate other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome. This diagnosis, which is related to psychosomatic disease, is one of exclusion. Urinary tract infection (UTI): Symptoms may include lower abdominal or suprapubic pain, urinary frequency, burning with urination (dysuria) that is frequently worse at the end of the urinary stream (terminal dysuria) and which can also involve hematuria. There may even be lower back pain in severe infections that involve the kidney. Among patients with female genitalia, the onset of symptoms may be related to recent sexual intercourse. UTI is a common condition and should always be considered in patients with lower abdominal pain. Vaginitis: The patient's symptoms and concerns will vary depending on the cause of the discharge. She can present with a vaginal discharge that is watery to pasty; it may be malodorous; discomfort can vary from itching to burning, and there may or may not be pain with intercourse (dyspareunia) and pelvic pain. Being at risk for sexually transmitted infections widens the differential, and the use, or lack thereof, and the type of contraceptive used impacts that risk. An expanded history is needed in this case. Examination of the discharge under the microscope, or sending a vaginal swab and cervical cultures to the lab, is generally required. © 2021 Aquifer 2/8 Intimate Partner Violence: Screening Recommendations, Prevalence, and Complications
  • 7. Screening recommendations: The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology suggests screening all patients who come to them (family planning patients, all ob-gyn patients, and all prenatal patients) at first visit, at each trimester, and at the postpartum visit. It may help to preface asking such questions with a statement such as: "Because intimate partner violence (IPV) is so common, I ask all of my patients about this..." The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that clinicians screen women of childbearing age for IPV, such as domestic violence, and provide or refer women who screen positive to intervention services. (Level of Evidence: B) This is routinely done at annual exams or when red flags are present. Here is a good resource regarding screening for intimate partner violence. Prevalence: It is important to be aware of IPV when addressing our patients, as approximately 25% of women in the U.S. report being victimized by an intimate partner at some point in their lifetime. While the majority of IPV victims are women, they can be any gender, occur in both heterosexual and same-sex relationships, and across all socioeconomic, age, and ethnic divides. Complications: In addition to the trauma incurred, the rates of chronic disease—including heart disease, diabetes, depression, and suicide—are significantly higher in victims as well as in adults who were
  • 8. victimized as children as a result of direct abuse and exposure to IPV. Symptoms and Conditions Experienced More Frequently by Victims of IPV Red Flags for Intimate Partner Violence Individuals who were victimized by their intimate partner are more likely to experience: Migraines, frequent headaches Chronic pain syndrome Heart and blood pressure problems Arthritis Stomach ulcers, frequent indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, spastic colon Pain during sex (dyspareunia), dysmenorrhea, vaginitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, chronic pelvic pain syndrome, and other gynecological diagnoses Invasive cervical cancer and preinvasive cervical neoplasia Depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress Unexplained or poorly explained findings on physical exam Red flags for intimate partner violence include: Delay in seeking medical care Non-compliance with treatment plan Partner insisting on staying close and answering questions directed to patient Hesitancy or not answering questions or inconsistent or incorrect answers given to questions Shyness or reticence in answering questions Explanation of problem or incident does not match severity of findings Facilitating Discussion About Intimate Partner Violence
  • 9. There are several nonjudgmental ways to ask about intimate partner violence. Examples include: "Do you feel safe at home?" "Because violence is so common, and there are so many forms of violence, I am asking all my patients about it. Is anyone now or has anyone in the past hurt you emotionally, physically, or sexually. Is anyone threatening you?" "All couples disagree at sometime. What happens when you disagree/fight/argue?" "Does your partner ever force you to do things you do not want to do or keep you from doing things you want to do?" "How do you handle money issues in your relationship?" "I often see the type of symptoms that you have in people who are being hurt at home or in a relationship. Do you think that this might be happening to you?" There are lots of things you can do to facilitate discussion about IPV. Ask screening questions Many clinics will ask a screening question of all patients during the triage process. Asking the patient, "Do you feel safe at home?" follows the vital signs and questions about whether or not the patient is having any pain. This open-ended question allows the patient to share information they might have about feeling unsafe at home, in their neighborhood, or where they live, work, or shop, or feeling threatened or actually being abused by someone. This question is appropriate for any age, gender, or socioeconomic class. It may take several visits for the patient to feel comfortable enough with the provider to discuss such a sensitive issue.
  • 10. Create a safe setting Hang posters on the clinic walls and place brochures about safety, particularly in private areas like bathrooms and exam rooms. These should also contain information addressing cultural differences and acknowledging varied relationships and backgrounds. © 2021 Aquifer 3/8 https://medu-relier- production.s3.amazonaws.com/files/fmCASES-20- P8RnpR9SYHNlXTWDD- avft7Ybug9ynLQTwQX8p10NgVKur6rUer/original/other_files/ 242833.pdf Interview the patient alone Never interview with the suspected perpetrator present. In order to have the partner leave the room, you can cite protocols such as, "I always do this part of the exam just with the patient. You can join us again when we are done." Or, "I begin the visit with the patient alone. If you have questions after, we can meet together." If the partner insists, then attempt to separate the two by taking the patient to obtain a urine sample or another test outside of the exam room. Infants and toddlers three years old or younger can stay with the parent, but it is recommended that if the child/children accompanying the parent are older than three, you should meet with the patient alone.
  • 11. Ensure confidentiality Update and review HIPAA forms and make sure that all staff are aware of how to use them. Be sure to tell the patient that anything discussed in the room will not be shared with anyone not directly involved with their care, including their partner and family members. Direct assessment Interviewing can begin with indirect questions such as, "Tell me about your relationship," but should include a direct assessment of safety, including questions regarding weapons in the house and danger or possible harm to the children or pets. Know your local laws All states require reporting of child abuse and some require reporting of intimate partner violence. Be open with your patient about your legal constraints. Facilitate impartiality Consider using a telephone service for interpretation if an appropriate professional interpreter is not present in the office. Do not use a friend or relative. Listen nonjudgmentally Validate the patient's concerns and the fact that abuse is not the fault of the victim.
  • 12. Handling Children During a Sensitive History and Exam It is generally preferred to have children outside the room during a pelvic or genital exam of the parent. Depending on the age of the child, some parents may prefer to have the child sit in the room in a corner and face away from the exam table, or keep a sleeping child in a stroller in the room with them. The clinician may have sensitive questions to ask; the parent-patient may not want the child to see them undressed and undergoing this exam. There is frequently someone on staff who will watch or entertain the child or children during this portion of the exam. Or the parent may have come to the clinic with a friend or relative with whom the child can stay in the waiting room during that portion of the visit. It is also important to have a chaperone in the room for the exam for legal reasons and for protection of the clinical staff. This person should be named in the chart note. Symptoms of Exposure to Domestic Violence in Children and Adolescents Obvious physical signs of physical or sexual abuse Behavioral or emotional problems, such as increased aggression, increased fear or anxiety, difficulty sleeping or eating, or other signs of emotional distress Chronic somatic concerns 30% to 60% of perpetrators of intimate partner violence also abuse children in the household. Intimate Partner Violence Safety Assessment
  • 13. 1. Increasing severity of violence 2. Presence of gun in the house 3. Threats to kill or commit suicide by either victim or abuser 4. Use of drugs or alcohol by victim or abuser 5. Victim trying to leave or left recently 6. Harm to children Increasing Severity of Intimate Partner Violence 1. Verbal abuse, insults, yelling 2. Throwing things, punching wall 3. Pushing victim or throwing things at victim 4. Slapping 5. Kicking, biting 6. Hitting with closed fist 7. Attempting strangulation 8. Beating up; punching with repeated blows © 2021 Aquifer 4/8 9. Threatening with weapon 10. Assault with weapon Escalating Cycle of Intimate Partner Violence Intimate partner violence is a pattern of increasing episodes of violence in which one partner exerts control over another through intimidation, physical and/or emotional violence, and threats. It is common for there to be a tension-building phase, a crisis phase when overt violence is likely to occur, followed by a calmer phase when the abuser might ask for forgiveness and even be
  • 14. affectionate. Unfortunately, in most cases, the cycle begins again and often the violence is increasingly severe. Documenting a Case of Suspected Intimate Partner Violence When documenting a history of abusive behavior, use the patient's own words in quotes and fill in names after pronouns are used. Example: "then he (John Smith)…". Use neutral language. Example: "patient states", not "patient alleges," which may give a false impression of disbelief. Give a detailed description of the patient's appearance, behavioral indicators, injuries and stages of healing, and health conditions. If the patient consents, use photos to document injuries; one with a face included in the photo, and then close- ups of the injury. If photos are not possible, draw and describe injuries on a body map in blue ink as this is difficult to alter/reproduce. Document recommendations for support and follow-up as well as materials given to the patient. Document abuse history as reported by patient in the subjective. The subjective section is meant to document the patient's experience and verification is not applicable. Include any laboratory and radiology tests ordered with results to maintain a complete record for the patient. Document results of health and safety assessments and plans for follow-up as well as referrals and materials given to the patient. Document recommendations for support. If the patient was referred for a post-rape exam, document the referral site. Maintain strict confidentiality and safeguard the chart rather than limit the contents for best care practices. Clinical Skills Adequately Addressing Your Patient's Needs Within Time
  • 15. Constraints It is a common scenario to see a patient that is scheduled for an acute visit, but the situation requires more time to be adequately addressed. Prioritize the most acute or high risk issues raised during this visit and focus on these, and then emphasize the importance of follow-up and schedule a follow-up visit as soon as possible. Management The Role of the Health Care Provider in the Care of a Victim of Intimate Partner Violence Acknowledge the abuse and health implications It is important to acknowledge the abuse, recognize the health implications, and share this with your patient. Support your patient's decisions While you may not always agree with the decisions your patient makes to stay or escape, it is important that you support their decisions. They have a greater understanding of the complexity of the problem, and have more information on which to base their actions. Address safety issues Address the level of risk and safety issues for your patient.
  • 16. Provide information for them to go to a safe haven if needed. As lack of a telephone or computer (or monitoring of their use) often make it unsafe or impossible for victims to contact IPV resources from home, it is important not only to give contact information to the patient, but also to offer a means for them to contact services while in your office. One should be aware that the person inflicting the violence might check the patient's/victim's phone and computer for recent phone calls, website visits, and emails. Practice cultural sensitivity Cultural differences can give the appearance of abuse, be accepting of practices some might consider abusive, and can inhibit the ability to interview or support a victim. Practicing sensitivity in caring for patients from different backgrounds is key to a supportive patient-clinician relationship. Consider impact of abuse on children and other vulnerable When children or other vulnerable persons who are less able to make decisions on their own behalf are in the home, consideration must be given to the impact of the abuse on them physically and mentally as well as their safety. Even in states where reporting abuse towards a domestic partner is not mandated, the impact or abuse on a child or other vulnerable person may be and will supersede the desires
  • 17. of the victim to not alert social services. © 2021 Aquifer 5/8 https://medu-relier- production.s3.amazonaws.com/files/fmCASES-20- P8RnpR9SYHNlXTWDD- avft7Ybug9ynLQTwQX8p10NgVKur6rUer/original/other_files/ 242926.pdf parties It is not possible for a clinician to solve the problem of IPV for an individual. Statistically, the most dangerous time for a victim is when they escape an abusive relationship. While it is hard to accept, sometimes it may be safer for a victim to stay with the perpetrator. Clinicians are not in a position to stop the abuse. You can make recommendations in terms of decreasing the victim's level of risk by providing resources to the patient, limiting access to weapons, and developing an escape plan with a victim's advocate. Safety planning takes time and expertise. While some clinicians will take the time to be trained to be effective at this, it is probably best to utilize experts who are associated with IPV agencies if available or to train a staff member to serve this role. Reporting Reporting laws differ from state to state, so you need to know what the laws are where you are working. Whenever a child is abused as a result of IPV, either intentionally or unintentionally, state law requires health care providers to
  • 18. report this abuse to child protection services. Mandated reporters would also report any high-risk situation of IPV in which children are at risk. However, state laws are less clear about whether exposure to IPV in the absence of injury or serious risk of injury to the child would require a report to children's protective services. In some states, stringent rules/laws require mandated reporters to notify child protection services whenever a child is in the home and has been exposed to a parent's abuse, whether or not the child has been directly abused. Proponents of this definition point to the ample documentation of the overlap between adult IPV and child abuse and the adverse psychological effects on children who witness IPV. Opponents of this policy believe it penalizes women for abuse that they have no control over and may discourage women from seeking help. It also could elevate the level of risk for the victim. In other states, a child's exposure to IPV does not automatically require a mandatory child protection report. The provider has wider discretion to assess whether a child has been directly involved and what other factors may exist to put the child at risk. In these states, a provider would take into account the existence of direct injury to a child, the potential danger of the situation, and the capacity of the mother to keep her children safe in deciding whether to notify Child Protective Services (CPS). The rules for victims who are adults and are not disabled vary dramatically from state to state, from mandatory reporting for evidence of abuse to reporting only if the victim asks the clinician to do so. Contact your local Domestic Violence helpline and ask what the rules are for the community in which you work. You
  • 19. can find out about your local resources by calling the National DV Hotline at (800) 799-SAFE, TTY (800) 787-3224. Studies Recommended Studies for Evaluation of Lower Abdominal Pai n Pap test— thin prep Recommended in the setting of previous abnormal results. KOH/saline wet prep This is a quick test which should be done as it could indicate inflammation (white blood cells) or diagnose trichomonas, bacterial vaginosis, or yeast vaginitis. Chlamydia / gonorrhea DNA probe Chlamydia and gonorrhea can present with a yellow discharge, abdominal pain, and dyspareunia. This is the preferred method for diagnosis of chlamydia and gonorrhea because both can be performed using the same sample, and the sample can be endocervical, urethral, vaginal, oral, or urine. Urine dipstick Helpful to rule out a urinary tract infection (UTI). Urine pregnancy test
  • 20. Should be performed on any patient who is physically able to be pregnant. RPR Should be done as part of the STI screen to rule out syphilis. HIV Should be done as part of the STI screen. HPV Consider ordering a reflex HPV. Reflex refers to the fact that an abnormal Pap will automatically be tested for HPV.If the Pap is normal, the HPV testing will not be done. Pelvic ultrasound The pelvic exam, urine pregnancy test, and STI testing will help guide the need for an ultrasound to evaluate a possible pelvic mass, the size of uterus and ovaries, to confirm the location of a pregnancy, or to rule out an inflammatory or infectious process. Colposcopy Colposcopy is not indicated until the results of the Pap are back. If the Pap is abnormal, and/or if high-risk HPV ispositive, a colposcopy may be indicated. Follow the ASCCP guidelines for follow up of abnormal PAP © 2021 Aquifer 6/8 Gonorrhea culture While this is a good test for gonorrhea, a separate test needs to be done on vaginal or urine samples. However,
  • 21. this is still the preferred method for sexual assault tests, for tests of cure, and for oral and rectal specimen. HCG beta sub This is generally not indicated because of the sensitivity of the urine pregnancy test. If the results of the urinepregnancy test were inconclusive, a blood test such as HCG Beta Sub would be needed. Clinical Reasoning Severe / Life-Threatening Causes of Abdominal Pain Appendicitis Patients with appendicitis often start with visceral pain that is dull and in the periumbilical region; within a short time the pain classically localizes; presentation is usually of fairly acute onset with moderate to severe right lower quadrant pain. There is often a history of nausea and/or vomiting. There are usually some changes in the patient's bowel movements. Ectopic pregnancy Ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency. Early medical treatment reduces the need for surgery, but if the fallopian tube is in danger of rupture, surgical intervention may be necessary. Patients present with divergent symptoms ranging from no pain and normal menses to intense pain and irregular or absent menses. A good history, the physical exam and lab testing (always get a pregnancy test if the patient has a uterus) are crucial for this diagnosis. Imaging is also usually needed. You need the date of the patient's last menstrual period (LMP), her menstrual history, most recent intercourse dates, the types of contraception used currently and used in the past
  • 22. /ever used, history of any vaginal or pelvic infections, and history of previous ectopic or normal pregnancies. Endometriosis While endometriosis is not typically life-threatening, it can be severe. The majority of patients are of reproductive age and present with cyclical pelvic pain, following the menstrual cycle in patients with regular menses. The location and pattern of the pain can vary widely, depending upon which organs have been affected. For example, those with bladder involvement may present with urinary frequency, urgency or dysuria. Endometriosis may also present as infertility in an otherwise asymptomatic patient or as an incidental finding during surgery. Ovarian pathology Patients with ovarian problems generally have lower abdominal or pelvic pain. Pain from ovarian torsion or ruptured cyst or ectopic pregnancy may be very severe and usually has a sudden onset. Patients often present to the emergency department due to the pain, and this is appropriate since imaging is usually necessary to determine the exact cause of the pain. In several cases, the pain from ovarian problems may persist for several weeks. It is often aggravated by intercourse or strenuous activity. Pelvic inflammatory disease Patients with pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) might have abdominal or pelvic pain, which is worse with sexual
  • 23. intercourse or with activities such as running or jumping, which cause jarring of the pelvic organs. This diagnosis has significant morbidity, which increases with the severity of the disease and with the length of time to diagnosis. Studies show that approximately one in four patients who had a single episode of PID later experienced tubal infertility, chronic pelvic pain, or an ectopic pregnancy, as a result of scarring and adhesions. Tubal adhesions leading to infertility have been reported to occur in 33% of patients after their first episode of PID, and up to 50% after the second pelvic infection. Normal pregnancy Patients who have normal pregnancies may experience some lower abdominal discomfort or pain as the uterus undergoes normal growth. This is more a diagnosis of exclusion, but you would not want to miss a pregnancy. Certain medications should not be given to patients who are pregnant. Fetuses should not be exposed to radiation. Trauma A careful history is important in regard to trauma. Be aware of the patient's body language and response to touch. Consider the consistency of the history with the exam. Have the patient undress and examine the patient thoroughly in a gown so that all areas can be visualized. Consider taking a photograph of any injuries and bruises if there is a way to appropriately attach them to the patient's medical record, and if the patient gives consent. References American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
  • 24. Sexual Misconduct. https://www.acog.org/Clinical-Guidance- and- Publications/Committee-Opinions/Committee-on-Ethics/Sexual- Misconduct Accessed June 9, 2020. American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology. Updated Consensus Guidelines for Managing Abnormal Cervical Cancer Screening Tests and Cancer Precursors. Updated 2013. Accessed February 8, 2020. Cartwright SL, Knudson MP. Evaluation of acute abdominal pain in adults. Am Fam Physician. 2008;77(7):971‐ 8. Connor VF. Essure: a review six years later. J Minim Invasive Gynecol. 2009;16(3):282‐ 90. Dicola D, Spaar E. Intimate Partner Violence. Am Fam Physician. 2016;94(8):646‐ 51. © 2021 Aquifer 7/8 https://www.acog.org/Clinical-Guidance-and- Publications/Committee-Opinions/Committee-on-Ethics/Sexual- Misconduct http://www.asccp.org/Assets/51b17a58-7af9-4667-879a- 3ff48472d6dc/635912165077730000/asccp-management- guidelines-august-2014-pdf https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18441863/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19423060/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27929227/ Edelson, J.L. (1999). "The Overlap Between Child Maltreatment and Woman Battering." Violence Against Women. 1999;5:134- 54.
  • 25. Family Violence Prevention Fund. Compendium of State Statutes and Policies on Domestic Violence and Health Care. Produced 2010. Accessed June 9, 2020. Futures Without Violence (formerly The Family Violence Prevention Fund). First Printing: September, 2002. Updated: 2020. Accessed February 8, 2020. Futures Without Violence. The Facts on Domestic, Dating and Sexual Violence. Released 2009. Accessed February 8, 2020. Futures Without Violence. The Facts on Women, Children and Gun Violence. Released 2013. Accessed February 8, 2020. Futures Without Violence. The Health Care Costs of Domestic and Sexual Violence. Updated March 2010. Accessed February 8, 2020. Hatcher RA et al. Contraceptive Technology 19th edition, Ardent Media, 2007. http://www.contraceptivetechnology.org/table.html. Accessed February 8, 2020. Institute for Clinical Systems Improvement (ICSI). Initial management of abnormal cervical cytology (Pap smear) and HPV testing. Algorithm. Bloomington (MN): Institute for Clinical Systems Improvement (ICSI); Oct 2008;32:63. Accessed February 8, 2020. Katz VL et al, Infections of the Upper Genital Tract: Endometritis, Acute and Chronic Salpingitis In: Comprehensive Gynecology, 5th edition. Philadelphia, PA: Mosby; 2007.
  • 26. Marsicano E, Vuong GM, Prather CM. Gastrointestinal causes of abdominal pain. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am. 2014;41(3):465-89. National Consensus Guidelines on Identifying and Responding to Domestic Violence Victimization in Health Care Settings. Produced by The Family Violence Prevention Fund, 383 Rhode Island Street, Suite 304, San Francisco, CA 94103-5133. (415) 252-8900. TTY (800) 595-4889. First Printing: September, 2002. Updated: February, 2004. Planned Parenthood Interactive website. Birth Control Methods and Options | Types of Birth Control. Accessed February 8, 2020. Shian B, Larson ST. Abdominal Wall Pain: Clinical Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, and Treatment. Am Fam Physician. 2018;98(7):429-36. Silverman JG, Decker MR, Reed E, Raj A. Intimate partner violence victimization prior to and during pregnancy among women residing in 26 U.S. states: associations with maternal and neonatal health. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2006;195(1):140‐ 8. Trigg BG, Kerndt PR, Aynalem G. Sexually transmitted infections and pelvic inflammatory disease in women. Med Clin North Am. 2008;92(5):1083‐ 113. Wet Mount. Military Obstetricts & Gynecology. http://www.brooksidepress.org/Products/Military_OBGYN/Text book/Discharge/WetMount.htm Accessed June 9, 2020.
  • 27. Your Birth Control Choices. Reproductive Health Access Project. http://www.reproductiveaccess.org/wp- content/uploads/2014/06/contra_choices.pdf. Updated February 2020. Accessed February 8, 2020. © 2021 Aquifer 8/8 https://www.acf.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/fysb/state_compendi um.pdf http://www.futureswithoutviolence.org http://www.futureswithoutviolence.org/userfiles/file/Children_a nd_Families/DomesticViolence.pdf http://www.futureswithoutviolence.org/userfiles/Gun Fact Sheet_FINAL 03 03 13.pdf http://www.futureswithoutviolence.org/userfiles/file/HealthCare /Health_Care_Costs_of_Domestic_and_Sexual_Violence.pdf http://www.contraceptivetechnology.org/table.html http://guideline.gov/algorithm/6755/NGC-6755_1.html https://europepmc.org/article/med/25155126 https://www.futureswithoutviolence.org/userfiles/file/Consensus .pdf http://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-topics/birth-control- 4211.htm https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30252418/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16813751/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18721654/ http://www.brooksidepress.org/Products/ Military_OBGYN/Text book/Discharge/WetMount.htm. http://www.reproductiveaccess.org/wp- content/uploads/2014/06/contra_choices.pdfFamily Medicine 20: 28-year-old female with lower abdominal painLearning ObjectivesKnowledgeSignificance of the Location of Lower Abdominal PainRed Flags of Life-Threatening Condition in Patient with Lower Abdominal/Pelvic PainObstetrical HistoryDocumenting Follow-Up and Lab ReportingAbdominal
  • 28. Pain HistorySome Common Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain Presenting in Primary CareIntimate Partner Violence: Screening Recommendations, Prevalence, and ComplicationsSymptoms and Conditions Experienced More Frequently by Victims of IPV Red Flags for Intimate Partner ViolenceFacilitating Discussion About Intimate Partner ViolenceHandling Children During a Sensitive History and ExamSymptoms of Exposure to Domestic Violence in Children and AdolescentsIntimate Partner Violence Safety AssessmentIncreasing Severity of Intimate Partner ViolenceEscalating Cycle of Intimate Partner ViolenceDocumenting a Case of Suspected Intimate Partner ViolenceClinical SkillsAdequately Addressing Your Patient's Needs Within Time ConstraintsManagementThe Role of the Health Care Provider in the Care of a Victim of Intimate Partner ViolenceStudiesRecommended Studies for Evaluation of Lower Abdominal PainClinical ReasoningSevere / Life-Threatening Causes of Abdominal PainReferences Assignment requirements Read “Case 6: Fixer Upper: Expanding the Magnolia Brand” in your Connect textbook. Evaluate Magnolia Brands’ sustainable competitive advantage by analyzing the case study and answering the following questions in 350 to 525 words: · How will the components of the external environment impact Magnolia Brands’ ability to realize their vision? · Who are Magnolia Brands’ major competitors? · What other factors are affecting the growth of Magnolia Brands? · What internal factors must be considered for Magnolia Brands to achieve its vision and mission? · What are some of Magnolia Brands’ strengths and weaknesses? · How does the new show represent an opportunity in the home
  • 29. remodeling industry? · What challenges or threats might Magnolia Brand face? · What measurements can be used to determine if the new show is successful? · What is the feasibility of the ability of Magnolia Brands to continue to be successful? Why? Read Case 8.3: Speaking Out about Malt, located on page 311 in your textbook. Determine whether Mary acted irresponsibly or disloyally in your opinion. Describe the actions that you think Mary should take next. Explain what you would do if you were in Mary’s position.