O2096: Psychosocial Support for Pediatric Victims of Gun Violence

Background: Psychosocial support is an important piece of the recovery for pediatric gunshot victims. For this study psychosocial support included referral to counseling, written materials, community support programs, and tools for coping and distraction (video games/ art therapy). Increasing levels of support systems have been implemented especially with the increased research into violence intervention programs and the increase in gun violence. We wanted to see how many of our pediatric patients who are victims of gun violence have had psychosocial issues and how many received psychosocial support.

Methods: This was an IRB-approved, retrospective chart review of patients 18 years and younger who presented to the tertiary level one pediatric trauma center with a gunshot injury and were seen by orthopedic surgery between 2004 and January 2023. There were 116 children identified who met the inclusion criteria; 14 of those who died during admission were excluded. Outcomes included psychosocial support, new behavioral issues, anxiety, or depression. Information was gathered from medical records.

Results: This group was 85%(87/102) male with 34% (35/102) Hispanic and 32%(33/102) African American. 32%(33/102) never returned for follow-up. 83%(85/102) of all patients had a social work assessment (SWA). A larger percentage of those with a SWA returned for care compared to those with no SWA(68% vs 65% respectively). Out of the patients who returned 30% (20/67) had behavioral issues, anxiety, or depression documented, this number only slightly decreased if utilizing psychosocial support 28%(19/67). Out of those who received psychosocial support 74% (50/68) returned.

Conclusion: Based on the majority demographic being males of color it is important that psychosocial support options cater to this demographic. The difference in return rate suggests the social work assessments may be useful for helping patients return for care. Receiving psychosocial support showed decreased loss to follow up. Previous research has shown loss to follow up as high as 43% in this population. Continuing to find tools that improve return rates and address psychosocial needs can improve care for these patients.