Aim This study aims to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of intimate partner violence (IPV) among intensive care unit (ICU) nurses. Methods ICU nurses from a tertiary hospital in Yunnan, China, were recruited for this study. Participants completed a survey assessing demographics, experiences of IPV, dyadic coping, anxiety, depression, and social relationships. In line with the STROBE guidelines, descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, and regression analysis was employed to explore influencing factors. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 25.0, and missing data were addressed with appropriate methods. Results are reported with 95% confidence intervals and p-values. Results Of the 232 ICU nurses approached, 191 completed the survey, with 58.1% reporting experiences of IPV. The most common types of IPV reported were negotiation (67.6%), psychological aggression (61.3%), physical assault (41.4%), injury (18.9%), and sexual coercion (8.1%). Significant factors associated with IPV included being an only child, partner's age, and partner's occupation (P < 0.05). Differences in social support and anxiety levels were also significantly associated with IPV (P < 0.05). Conclusion This study highlights a high prevalence of IPV among ICU nurses, with negotiation, psychological aggression, and physical assault being the most common forms. Key factors such as being an only child, partner characteristics, and social support were found to significantly influence IPV experiences. These findings emphasize the need for targeted support and interventions to address IPV within this healthcare group. Further research is necessary to explore effective prevention strategies and the role of personal and social factors in IPV. Clinical trial number Not applicable.