A nurse is assessing an individual in the emergency department with an accidental gun injury. What should the nurse include in the plan of care?

Including education about gun safety and securing access to firearms in the home is essential in the plan of care for an individual with an accidental gun injury. This choice addresses the root causes of such injuries and aims to prevent future incidents. By providing education, the nurse is not only helping the individual understand the risks associated with firearms but also promoting a culture of safety within the home environment.

This proactive approach helps empower the individual to take responsibility for their safety and the safety of others, particularly if there are children or visitors in the home. Understanding the importance of securing firearms can significantly reduce the likelihood of further accidents. This education can include practical tips, such as using safes for storage and being conscious of how firearms are handled around others.

While support for trauma, follow-up appointments, and gun ownership courses are important aspects in other contexts, they do not directly address the immediate need for safety education following an accidental injury. Safety education is crucial in the acute care setting to prevent reoccurrence and promote long-term safety measures.