Background: It may be difficult for nurses to identify women who are victims of domestic violence, because the violence is hidden. When violence isn't addressed, it can lead to physical and mental illness and societal costs. It is the health care responsibility to pay attention to health needs and create a safe environment for patients. It requires knowledge and training to facilitate the identification of women who are subjected to violence.

Aim: The purpose is to describe nurses' experiences when meeting women victims of domestic violence.

Method: A literature based study with qualitative approach. Articles were read, reviewed and analyzed according to Fribergs analysis method.

Results: This study presents two main themes and seven sub themes. The first theme is presented as Inability to help – related to lack of time, ignorance and how the woman handles the situation. The second theme is presented as Emotional impact – related to anger and frustration, sadness, fear and concern and joy, sympathy and meaningfulness.

Conclusion: Nurses need increased training about domestic violence when screening, as well as the causes and consequences of violence. Education on violence can give more understanding of how the nurse should act in the meeting and what questions should be asked. Knowledge can also help the nurses to deal with the lack of time, as it enables the nurse to prioritize. Emotional support is needed so the nurse should not be negatively affected personally or professionally.