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.
Anything is better than nothing.