The aim of this literature study was to describe nurses' attitudes toward female patients who have been victims of spouse abuse. In this descriptive literature study, fifteen scientific articles were used in the result. The articles were of both qualitative and quantitative nature. The nurses felt that domestic violence was a social problem and that they had an important role in the detection of such violence. Several had themselves experienced violence but couldn‟t believe that so many in their vicinity or in the care were affected. Nurses thought that abused women had low self esteem and factors such as economics and children played into why the woman stayed in the violent relationship. The nurses often had a lack of education about the subject and felt uncomfortable in the situation that routinely screening all female patients for domestic violence. Education increased awareness and nurses felt more confident to talk about domestic violence with their female patients. The study found barriers to routine screening, as time constraints and lack of opportunity to talk separately with the patient. More education and knowledge of the subject is desirable so these women can be discovered and be helped by the health services.