The op stated that "She has a .38 handgun but has been told by a few people (shooting range owner, RTC instructor's cousin, co-worker, etc.)that the best thing to have is a shotgun."
Why would they all state that if indeed the lady was a competent handgun shooter?
Just read this thread. At least half the people here advocate that a shotgun is the "best" home defense gun, and plenty dismiss the .38 as inadequate. I think it has more to do with their biases than her ability. Not that your average gun enthusiast is opinionated or anything. ;~)
Most home defense shootings are at point blank range, say less than 10 feet. If you can point at it, you can hit it.