Recognizing the Unseen: The Role of Nurse Leaders in Addressing Human Trafficking

Author: McDowell, Megan

Abstract: Human trafficking is a significant public health and patient safety issue that frequently goes unrecognized in health care settings despite many victims interacting with health care professionals during exploitation. Nurses are uniquely positioned to identify and respond to trafficking; however, gaps in education, training, and organizational preparedness continue to limit effective intervention. Nurse leaders play a critical role in addressing these gaps by integrating human trafficking education into orientation, competency validation, continuing education, and institutional protocols. This article examines the leadership imperative surrounding human trafficking recognition and response in clinical practice. Common risk factors, clinical indicators, and health presentations associated with trafficking are reviewed to support nursing awareness and assessment. The article further highlights the importance of trauma informed, standardized approaches to care and introduces the PEARR (Provide Privacy, Educate, Ask, Respect, and Respond) framework as an evidence-based strategy for guiding clinical interactions and referrals. Meaningful change requires more than awareness alone; it requires intentional leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, and system-level integration of policies and protocols that support safe, patient-centered care. By prioritizing education and organizational readiness, nurse leaders can strengthen nurses’ ability to identify vulnerable patients, respond appropriately, and improve health and safety outcomes for individuals impacted by trafficking.

Keywords: human trafficking, nurse leaders, PEARR framework