What is the Abuse Assessment Screen (AAS), and when is it typically used?

• A. A detailed, long-form instrument used to identify all forms of violence across the lifetime.
• B. An assessment tool used in courts to determine guilt.
• C. A screening tool used to identify potential physical or sexual violence by a partner and safety concerns; used during patient intake.
• D. A post-assessment survey for follow-up care.

Answer: (C)

The Abuse Assessment Screen is a brief, validated screening tool used in healthcare settings to identify whether a patient is experiencing physical or sexual violence by a partner and to flag safety concerns. It’s typically administered during patient intake so clinicians can recognize abuse early and connect the patient with appropriate resources and safety planning. It’s not a long-form measure of lifetime violence, not used in courts to determine guilt, and not a post-assessment survey for follow-up care.