What it means
Read it from context. In immunization schedules, IPV is the inactivated poliovirus vaccine, the polio shot given in the US: four doses in childhood, at 2 months, 4 months, 6 to 18 months and 4 to 6 years. In mental health and safety screening, it stands for intimate partner violenceIN-tih-mut PART-ner VY-uh-lensPhysical, sexual or emotional harm, stalking or control by a current or former partner or spouse.Full entry .
For the nurse
If an order or note could mean either, ask rather than guess.
Related terms
immunization
The process of making a person protected against a disease, most often by giving a vaccine.
intimate partner violence
Physical, sexual or emotional harm, stalking or control by a current or former partner or spouse.