Understanding School Nurses' Perspectives on Firearm Violence Prevention: Attitudes, Beliefs, and Training Needs.

Abstract

This study examined school nurses' experiences and beliefs about firearm violence and related policies. A cross-sectional survey was conducted at the National Association of School Nurses Annual Conference in July 2023, gathering data on attitudes and knowledge regarding firearm violence prevention. Of the 363 respondents (65% response rate), 98% were female, and 44.9% had under 10 years of experience. Nearly half reported firearm ownership, and 39% had encountered incidents involving a student bringing a firearm to school. Most nurses (86%) reported having a firearm emergency plan at their schools, yet only 8% had training on counseling for firearm safety. Despite 41% receiving firearm safety training, many nurses expressed a need for more resources and training in firearm violence prevention. These findings highlight the need for specialized, culturally informed, and medically accurate training to better equip school nurses in addressing firearm safety and violence prevention in schools.