Implementation of a firearm safety guidance training program for pediatric providers

Area of Science:

• Pediatric injury prevention
• Public health interventions
• Medical education

Background:

• Pediatric unintentional firearm injuries are a preventable public health concern.
• Healthcare providers often lack confidence and training in delivering firearm safety guidance (FSG).
• There is a need for effective training programs to improve provider delivery of FSG.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and concept-test a firearm safety guidance (FSG) training program for pediatric providers.
• To address provider discomfort and enhance knowledge and skills in delivering FSG.
• To improve the routine delivery of FSG in pediatric care settings.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Kern's 6-step curriculum development model for program design.
• Incorporated foundational elements: awareness, knowledge of safe storage, visual aids (AAP infographic), and delivery examples.
• Conducted in-person training with iterative modifications based on provider feedback and concept testing.
• Evaluated program effectiveness and satisfaction through surveys and focus groups.

Main Results:

• Trained 44 pediatric providers across 8 clinics over one year.
• Modifications included a Spanish visual aid, safety device instruction, simulation, and a home safety video.
• Routine FSG delivery by pediatricians significantly increased from 34% to 71% (p=0.001).
• Providers reported increased comfort and satisfaction with FSG delivery, particularly with the AAP infographic.

Conclusions:

• A quality-improvement-based FSG training model was successfully developed and tested.
• The training program demonstrated positive feedback and significantly increased FSG delivery among pediatric providers.
• This model offers a scalable framework for developing FSG training in diverse healthcare settings.