Which action is recommended to be included in discharge planning for trafficking victims?

Which action is recommended to be included in discharge planning for trafficking victims?

• A. Ensure that safety planning is included in the discharge planning process
• B. Delay safety planning until after discharge
• C. Provide only medical discharge summary
• D. No plan for safety concerns

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that safety planning must be part of discharge planning for trafficking victims. After leaving care, their risk of harm can remain or even escalate, so a proactive plan helps keep them protected and connects them to supports. Including safety planning means working with the patient to identify concrete steps and resources they can realistically use after discharge. This can include identifying a trusted person to contact in an emergency, arranging safe housing or shelter options, providing information and access to hotlines or community victim services, and outlining how they can access medical and social work support without revictimization. It also involves practical considerations like secure handling of important documents, transportation plans, and strategies to minimize monitoring or contact from an abuser, all tailored to the patient’s situation and safety needs. Importantly, this process should be trauma-informed, respect the patient’s autonomy, and consider cultural and language needs. Delaying safety planning or offering only a medical summary fails to address the ongoing threat and the complex needs of trafficking survivors. A plan with safety considerations is essential to reduce risk and ensure a path to ongoing care and support.

The key idea is that safety planning must be part of discharge planning for trafficking victims. After leaving care, their risk of harm can remain or even escalate, so a proactive plan helps keep them protected and connects them to supports.

Including safety planning means working with the patient to identify concrete steps and resources they can realistically use after discharge. This can include identifying a trusted person to contact in an emergency, arranging safe housing or shelter options, providing information and access to hotlines or community victim services, and outlining how they can access medical and social work support without revictimization. It also involves practical considerations like secure handling of important documents, transportation plans, and strategies to minimize monitoring or contact from an abuser, all tailored to the patient’s situation and safety needs. Importantly, this process should be trauma-informed, respect the patient’s autonomy, and consider cultural and language needs.

Delaying safety planning or offering only a medical summary fails to address the ongoing threat and the complex needs of trafficking survivors. A plan with safety considerations is essential to reduce risk and ensure a path to ongoing care and support.