"What Were You Doing To Get Shot?" Exploring The Perceptions And Experiences Of Critical Care Trauma Nurses On Gun Violence And Caring For Persons With Gun Violence Injuries

Rising gun violence (GV) means critical care trauma nurses (CCTNs) are caring for those most impacted, navigating complex feelings, family needs and very sick patients. I asked, “What can I do from the bedside?” Grounded in the socio-ecological model and complexity theory, a qualitative exploration of CCTNs’ perceptions and lived experiences began. Community-based professionals’ (CBPs) were consulted and CCTNs interviewed. Thematic analysis allowed four themes to emerge: one from the CBP, highlighting the need for persons with GV injuries to feel safe; the remaining themes tell nurses’ understudied stories, attempts to makes sense of the senseless and the toll of bearing witness. Overarchingly, trauma emerged for those in the bed and those caring for them from the bedside, reminding us that We are all humans – in trauma. Shared experiences of trauma provide the opportunity to engage in activities that improve the lives of CCTNs and those living with GV.