COVID-19 is known as our own modern-day pandemic but with this lingers a much darker pandemic, that is not new to us. Since the start of lockdown South Africa has seen a surge in gender-based violence, during just the first week of lockdown there were 2 230 reported cases. On the 18th of June President Ramaphosa himself allured to the fact that no less than 21 women and children lost their lives due to gender-based violence. In our attempts to flatten the curve of COVID-19 many women and children became trapped with their abusers. Sexual and Gender-based violence is a silent pandemic that his flourishing in the shadows of the coronavirus pandemic. Although this statistical overview pertains to South Africa the rest of the world is not spared.
Domestic violence shelters are also undergoing strain as they reach capacity due to the increase in IPV being experienced. Even the most advanced and best-resourced health systems are reaching saturation, including those at the front line in their response to S/GBV incidents.
This course is designed to equip healthcare providers with the knowledge and means to help them respond adequately to survivors of violence in any form. S/GBV is a major concern for healthcare providers at all times, more so in times of crisis - if they do not observe and ask – no one else will.
Upon completion of this short course, a learner will be able to:
• Describe Sexual- and Gender-based Violence as a public health problem within the COVID-19 pandemic context
• Recognise and Identify sexual and gender-based violence presentations
• Define your obligation as a healthcare practitioner under the law
• Demonstrate clinical skills appropriate to your scope of practice to respond to sexual and gender-based violence
• Evaluate resources and support for patients and for oneself
The short course is offered as an online short course that is enhanced with additional resources to provide a well-rounded learning experience.
Describe sexual and gender-based violence as a public health problem within the COVID-19 pandemic context
• Prevalence of SGBV
• Consequences of SGBV
On the victim
Trauma and the brain
On society
• Global emergencies and the effect on SGBV
• Identify SGBV
Recognise the signs and symptoms that suggest SGBV
How to ask victims if they are being abused
• Understanding your obligations as a healthcare practitioner under the law
Legal framework
Reporting suspected child abuse
Testifying in court
Professional and ethical considerations
• Demonstrate clinical skills appropriate to one’s profession and speciality
Relevant clinical assessment
Medical treatment and follow up
Psychosocial support
• Resources and support for patients and healthcare professionals:
Risk assessment
• Self-care for healthcare professionals
Participants are required to engage with all of the online learning activities. Each module is accompanied by MCQ’s. Participants need to acquire a cumulative average of 50% to achieve the certificate of completion.
FPD will award successful participants with a certificate of completion upon completion of all online learning activities and the assessment.