Firearm Safety: Implications for Pediatric Nurses

Firearm-related injuries to children are reported as one of the top 10 causes of death for all age groups of children. Over 250 children are shot unintentionally each year, with 150 deaths per annum. Accidental shootings occur when a child has access to a family member's weapon and ammunition in the home. This article summarizes the literature on accidental shootings in the home, not including intentional homicides, suicides, or mass shootings. The pediatric surgical nurse can attempt to decrease this tragedy by providing prevention education at every pediatric visit.