Trauma Center Youth Violence Screening and Brief Interventions: A Multisite Pilot Feasibility Study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Trauma Surgery
• Adolescent Medicine

Background:

• Youth violence is a significant public health issue, with firearms involved in 84% of homicides among those aged 10-24.
• Nearly half of traumatic deaths in youth stem from violence-related injuries.
• In 2013, over 580,000 youth experienced nonfatal assault-related injuries requiring emergency care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the process, feasibility, and challenges of implementing violence brief interventions (VBIs).
• To assess patient perspectives on violent behaviors within a hospital setting.

Main Methods:

• A multisite pilot study conducted at two Level 1 trauma centers (TCs) in the Southeastern United States.
• Participants (N=38, ages 15-25) received at least one VBI during their hospital stay.
• Data collected on VBI completion rates and implementation barriers/supports.

Main Results:

• Varied completion rates for VBIs were observed between the two trauma centers (TC2 had higher completion of 2 sessions than TC1).
• Identified barriers included the need for staff support and clear clinical guidelines.
• Facilitators for implementation included coordinated prevention and outreach programs.

Conclusions:

• Violence brief interventions are feasible in trauma center settings but require tailored implementation strategies.
• Further research is necessary to identify key factors for the successful and widespread implementation of VBIs in trauma care.
• Enhancing staff support and developing integrated prevention programs are crucial for optimizing VBI effectiveness in preventing youth violence.