Training in firearm safety counseling in pediatric residency programs

Area of Science:

• Pediatric education
• Public health
• Injury prevention

Background:

• Pediatricians play a crucial role in child safety and injury prevention.
• Firearm violence is a significant public health concern affecting children.
• Formal training in firearm safety counseling is essential for pediatric residents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current status of formal firearm safety counseling training in US pediatric residency programs.
• To identify the content, delivery methods, and barriers related to this training.
• To determine resources that could enhance firearm safety education in residency programs.

Main Methods:

• A national survey was conducted among pediatric residency program directors in the coterminous United States.
• The survey assessed the availability and nature of firearm safety counseling training.
• Response rate was 77% (N=209 programs).

Main Results:

• Only one-third of pediatric residency programs provide formal firearm safety counseling training.
• A majority of responding directors (65%) believe counseling on firearm safety is a pediatrician's responsibility.
• Few directors (19%) perceived counseling effectiveness in reducing firearm injuries; key resources for enhancing training include videos, patient materials, and curriculum guides.

Conclusions:

• Despite a recognized responsibility, formal firearm safety training is lacking in many pediatric residency programs.
• Barriers such as a lack of trained personnel and educational resources impede the implementation of this crucial training.
• Addressing these barriers is vital to equip future pediatricians to prevent childhood firearm violence.