A Community Educational Intervention to Improve Firearm Safety Behaviors in Families

Abstract

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.