Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this quality improvement project was to implement and evaluate a human trafficking screening tool and increase primary care providers and student providers knowledge regarding human trafficking and trauma informed care.|Background: Human trafficking is a public health concerns with an increased number of cases being reported each year. Studies show up to 88% of trafficking victims have contact with healthcare providers during the time they are trafficked but were not identified. Currently, no standardized screening tool exists to identify human trafficking victims. Identified victims need trauma-informed care provided to prevent revictimization.|Sample/Setting: The sample for this project was patients across the lifespan at a primary care safety net clinic in Omaha, Nebraska.|Methods: A self-assessment form on 15 guiding principles of trauma-informed care was given to students and providers at the safety net clinic. Three topics were chosen for a focus of improvement, education was provided, and re-assessment forms were sent after education was provided. A human trafficking screening form was implemented to help providers and students identify risk factors and red flags of human trafficking among clinic patients.|Results: A total of 19 screening forms were completed. Eight were male, 9 female, and 2 had no response. 17 identified at least one risk factor for human trafficking, 3 forms identified at least 1 red flag, and one had a positive screening result. All 3 topics for improvement (survivor-informed care, screening, and religious/spiritual self-determination) had improved scores on post-assessment.|Conclusion: A majority of screened individuals had at least one risk factor for human trafficking. A screening form is helpful in identifying risk factors and red flags leading to the ability to provide trauma-informed care and referral to local resources.