This report examines training for and implementation of the Provide privacy, Educate, Ask, Respect and Respond (PEARR) Tool.
This findings of this report on the Provide privacy, Educate, Ask, Respect and Respond (PEARR) Tool demonstrate a general increase in awareness about the prevalence of human trafficking, as well as a significant increase in awareness about the implementation of the PEARR Tool. The PEARR Tool, a recognized screening tool in the U.S., is a structured conversation guide for health professionals on how to provide trauma-sensitive assistance to patients who may be experiencing such violence, including human trafficking. This is the first study to evaluate the PEARR Tool and its use in hospital settings. A U.S.-based health system adopted the PEARR Tool as part of its Abuse, Neglect, and Violence policy and procedure. To support successful adoption, the health system also developed educational modules on human trafficking and trauma-informed approaches to patient care, including a module on the PEARR steps. In October 2020 and June 2021, a voluntary “PEARR Tool Training and Implementation Survey” was distributed to emergency department staff in three hospitals. The survey consisted of 22 questions: eight demographic and occupation related questions; five questions related to the education provided to staff; and nine questions related to the use of the PEARR Tool in identifying and assisting patients. Of those who had utilized the PEARR Tool, there was a marked increase in staff reporting its usefulness and ease of access when caring for patients. (Published Abstract Provided)