Preparing questions in advance can help patients to have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions regarding abuse:

1. How can I help my friend who is in an abusive relationship?
   
   
2. If I report my husband to the authorities for child abuse, will my child be taken away?
   
   
3. Do you know any shelters or crisis centers for victims of domestic violence?
   
   
4. I grew up in an abusive household. Am I at risk for becoming abusive towards my family and loved ones?
   
   
5. What can I do to prevent becoming abusive towards my family and loved ones?
   
   
6. Where can I get help so that I can stop hitting my child?
   
   
7. How can I protect myself from being a victim of assault and other types of violence?
   
   
8. I am scared my partner/spouse may kill me if I report the abuse to authorities. What should I do to protect myself?
   
   
9. I am 75 years old and I suspect my family is misusing my credit cards. I worry that I will have no one to take care of me if I confront them. What should I do to protect my finances as well as myself?
   
   
10. I suspect my child is being abused, how can I get him/her to confide in me?