Assessment of domestic violence victims should occur immediately after disclosure of abuse and at any follow-up appointments.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only at initial intake
• D. Only during emergencies

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is that assessing safety and risk for domestic violence victims should be an ongoing, integrated part of care—not a one-time event. When someone discloses abuse, you must promptly check current safety, identify imminent danger, and connect them with appropriate resources. This immediate assessment helps establish a clear safety plan, determine urgent needs, and set up referrals (to shelters, legal advocacy, crisis hotlines, etc.) while the disclosure is fresh.

But risks and circumstances can change quickly. At follow-up appointments, new information may emerge, the person’s situation may have shifted (e.g., changes in living arrangements, finances, or dynamics with the abusive partner), and previously hidden injuries or threats may become apparent. Ongoing reassessment ensures that safety planning stays up to date, that barriers to seeking help are addressed, and that the person continues to receive appropriate support and resources.

So, safety and risk assessment should occur right after disclosure and at every subsequent contact, not only at intake or during emergencies.