The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #48772

Rose A. Cheney, PhD¹, Neil A. Weiner, PhD², Melissa H. Seide, MSW, LSW¹, Therese S. Richmond, PhD³, and C. William Schwab, MD¹. (1) Firearm Injury Center at Penn, University of Pennsylvania, 3440 Market Street, First Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104-3335, 215 614 0162, rose.cheney@uphs.upenn.edu, (2) Center for the Study of Youth Policy, University of Pennsylvania, 4200 Pine Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104-4090, (3) School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Nursing Education Building, 412, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6096

Measurement in firearm injury research is challenging because of the complex factors and behaviors involved, limitations of available data, and variations among the conceptual approaches of different disciplines. Inappropriate specification of the data elements and/or their inaccurate measurement can lead to erroneous results and conclusions, and in turn, poor policy.

A framework for modeling the convergence of environment, host(s) and agent that is necessary for a firearm injury event was developed. The purpose is to better specify core measurement elements for answering research questions, guiding intervention, and informing policy. The framework specifies both measurement and intervention points within the complex context of multiple, sequential, and inter-related events involved in any given firearm injury. Three distinct temporal chains of events (for agent and hosts) need to converge through time and space in order for a firearm injury to occur. Each temporal chain, as it progresses through the pre-, peri- and post injury stages, can incorporate individual and community characteristics, influences and impacts.

The model was piloted using case histories from both linked fatality reviews and from survivor outcome data. These data, collected as part of a trauma-center based model to reduce firearm injury through community partnerships, allowed the definition of specific series of events relevant to the firearm injury, regardless of intent. Specifying points for both measurement and intervention facilitates the collaborative work of multiple disciplines and more clearly guides community planning in order to address this complex health problem.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, participants will be able to

• Describe the convergence of three temporal chains of events that result in firearm injury; and
• Use a framework, which incorporates these three chains of events, to analyze fatality or case review data in order to identify measurement and intervention points for firearm injury.

Keywords: Firearms,

Related Web page: www.uphs.upenn.edu/ficap

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.