Caught in the crossfire. Children, guns, and trauma: an update

The dramatic increase in violence-related deaths in the last few years demands that violence be recognized as a public health emergency. Even though mortality rates in children have decreased overall and deaths from injuries have also decreased, the rate of violence-related mortality has increased. Violence does not know the limits of cities, age, sex, or race; everyone, everywhere is affected. The recognition of violence as a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in children must become a national priority. By making a commitment to tackle the problem of violence, nurses and other health care professionals can make a significant contribution to society at large.