Trauma Newsletter June 2026-Trauma Newsletter June 2026

Trauma Newsletter June 2026

Pdf Summary

The newsletter focuses on gun violence prevention at SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital during National Gun Violence Awareness Month. It notes that gunshot wounds remain the third leading cause of injury at the Level 1 Trauma Center, though the penetrating injury rate has declined to 14% over six years due to prevention efforts. The article emphasizes that gun violence remains a major community public health issue.<br /><br />It summarizes the CDC’s recommendation for a multifactorial prevention strategy, including street outreach programs, hospital-based violence intervention programs like START, therapeutic interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, and community/environmental improvements that address poverty, safety, mental health access, green spaces, and vacant properties.<br /><br />A major message is safe firearm storage. The newsletter recommends removing firearms from homes whenever possible, especially where children live. If firearms are kept, they should be stored in a safe or lock box to prevent unauthorized access; hiding a gun is not considered safe storage. It also warns that children should not be present when entering a safe’s code.<br /><br />SSM Health offers free cable gun locks at the emergency departments of Saint Louis University Hospital and Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital, available 24/7 with no ID required. The hospital also participates in the Alternative to Violence program, which educates teens about the effects of gunshot wounds and teaches bleeding control skills.<br /><br />Finally, the newsletter promotes National Gun Violence Awareness Day on Friday, June 5, encouraging staff to wear orange in remembrance of victims and to support awareness efforts. The Trauma Outreach team will distribute free gun locks and orange bracelets outside the cafeteria.

Keywords

gun violence prevention

National Gun Violence Awareness Month

SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital

safe firearm storage

gun locks

hospital-based violence intervention

trauma center

community public health

Alternative to Violence program

wear orange