What is the next step for a nurse after identifying a client has been a victim of partner violence?

The sequence of care in a situation involving a victim of partner violence should prioritize the safety and well-being of the client. After identifying that a client has experienced partner violence, the next appropriate step would typically be to document any injuries. Taking photographs of the client's injuries serves multiple purposes: it provides tangible evidence of abuse, which can be crucial if the client decides to pursue legal action, and it also supports the clinical documentation of the client's condition.

However, it is essential to understand that merely documenting injuries may not be sufficient in the context of responding to partner violence. The nurse must also ensure the client's immediate safety, provide support, and ideally refer them to appropriate services such as counseling or social services. A comprehensive approach often includes reporting the incident to authorities, depending on the severity and the laws of the jurisdiction, but the act of documenting injuries is a critical and initial step that helps in providing a foundation for further action.

In this context, taking photos of the injuries aligns with standard practices of assessment and documentation, which are foundational elements in managing cases of violence.