Trauma-informed care and the research literature: how can the mental health nurse take the lead to support women who have survived sexual assault?

Many women who access mental health services have been subjected to violent acts, including childhood sexual abuse and adult sexual assault, often at the hands of family members and partners. The vulnerability of these women can be further complicated when health professionals lack sensitivity to the issues involved; and the treatment received by the women is insensitive, leading to experiences of re-traumatisation. This article considers the principles of trauma-informed care and practice, as represented in the literature; and explains how mental health nurses can lead the way in multidisciplinary environments to ensure that women who have experienced violence receive the most appropriate health care, and are thereby supported to attain the best possible outcome.