Ongoing Violence Assessment Tool (OVAT)

For a positive result:

• Assess imminent danger (e.g., lethality questions, weapon access, children in the home).
• Ensure patient safety on-site (e.g., separate from partner, provide a private phone, involve security if needed).
• Discuss and create a personalized safety plan.
• Refer the patient to appropriate local resources (e.g., shelters, hotlines, counseling services).
• Consider emergency shelter referral or law enforcement assistance if lethality risk is high.
• Document findings in the medical record; follow medicolegal requirements.
• Address medical sequelae (e.g., wound care, STI testing, emergency contraception, mental health management).

If ongoing concern but a negative result:

• Reassure confidentiality.
• Schedule discreet follow-up, if possible.
• Provide information about local support resources.

Be aware of state/location-specific mandatory-reporting laws.