Firearm deaths and injuries—whether accidental, deliberate, or in the midst of a mental health crisis—continue to rise. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, overall firearm mortality has increased by 35%, and firearm injury is now the number one killer of children between the ages of 1 and 19 years.

Just recently, more violence using firearms occurred in our country. All of us at American Nurse Journal extend our condolences to everyone affected by these events. However, condolences (the proverbial thoughts and prayers) won’t solve the problem. This is a safety issue that requires action on several fronts, including within healthcare.

Conversations about firearms can prove difficult, but with training and experience, nurses, providers, and other healthcare professionals can have meaningful patient discussions about safety.

Two articles in the March issue of ANJ address this topic and nurses’ role within their work settings and communities to advocate for the safe use and storage of guns:

• Gun violence: A public health issue
• Healthcare’s role in reducing gun violence

The recent shooting events prompted us to release these articles ahead of publication so that you have a chance to consider the authors’ thoughts and recommendations. You can find other articles on this topic here.

ANJ will continue to offer thoughts and prayers, and we’ll continue to publish articles by subject matter experts on this vital safety issue.