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A Community Educational Intervention to Improve Firearm Safety Behaviors in Families

  • Elizabeth G. Choma
    Correspondence
    Correspondence: Elizabeth G. Choma, DNP, MSN, RN, CPNP-PC, School of Nursing, George Washington University, 45085 University Dr., Innovation Hall 201K, Ashburn, VA 20147
    Affiliations
    Elizabeth G. Choma, Clinical Assistant Professor and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, School of Nursing, George Washington University, Ashburn, VA
    Search for articles by this author
Published:February 01, 2023DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pedhc.2023.01.001

      Introduction

      Childhood gun-related injuries and deaths have reached levels indicative of a public health crisis in the United States. However, < 30% of gun owners report storing their firearms in the recommended manner, with many gun injuries resulting from those found in the home. By incorporating just a few questions during the primary care visit, providers may be able to protect and save lives.

      Method

      The author uses an established curriculum for improving gun safety within the family and collects data on its effectiveness within a community institution. This quality improvement project included pre-post studies to measure, monitor, and evaluate an educational intervention using audience interaction.

      Results

      Although not all the findings were statistically relevant because of sample size and subject participation, the importance of the intervention and its applicability to pediatric practice is evident.

      Discussion

      Additional studies are recommended.

      KEY WORDS

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