Once again, Rutgers University – Camden Nursing Dean, Dr. Donna Nickitas has given me an opportunity to publish a guest editorial in her journal, Nursing Economic$. I have had the professional privilege of being part of the Rutgers-Camden Nursing faculty in the School Nurse Specialty Program since 2011. I currently serve as Clinical Coordinator in the program and while I am not part of the full-time faculty, I have been warmly welcomed and supported as a respected member of the team. I am grateful for the collaborative opportunities through Rutgers that have promoted the mission of gun violence prevention through a public health lens.
Here is a link to the Op-Ed:
Nurses and Gun Violence Prevention: Protecting the Public’s Health
Nurses hold a unique position to make a significant impact in safeguarding the public’s health from the devastating effects of gun violence. In my Op-Ed, I emphasize the collective power we possess as a body of healthcare professionals to advocate for safe firearm storage. This simple yet crucial message has the potential to immediately reduce gun-related deaths stemming from unintentional shootings, suicides, and even school shootings, where the majority of firearms are accessed from homes.
I am committed to continuing my efforts in writing, speaking, learning, and actively participating in promoting a public health approach to gun violence prevention. This dedication is rooted in my personal experience with the generational trauma caused by gun violence and my decades of school nursing practice in a community heavily impacted by such violence.
Nursing, with its nearly 5 million strong members, has the potential for immense influence. Imagine the impact we could have if we united our voices to advocate for safe firearm storage! I firmly believe that I am not merely shouting into the void; there is strength in our collective voice. I invite you to join me in this vital endeavor. Together, we can make a difference by raising awareness, engaging in advocacy, and supporting initiatives that prioritize the safety and well-being of our communities in the face of gun violence. Will you stand with me in this effort?
Editorial Nursing Economics 7:2023
I would love to be involved in preventing gun violence through a public health lens. As a newly retired school nurse I am available to support you in any capacity. Just let me know Robin.
Cathy Riccio
Hi Cathy, Thank you for reaching out & congrats on your retirement. There is so much you can do to help spread the word. Let’s connect!
Thank you for sharing this passioned plea. As a school nurse leader in a small school district in an urban area – St. Louis City Mo. I have had the pleasure of working with School Nurse Leaders from across our metro area to increase public health awareness and the roles we play as child health advocates. We are the boots on the ground for Public Health and our nations greatness resource- Our Children. They have the right to affordable health Care and the right to live free of fear from gun violence. I would love to champion the cause in our city. Please feel free to reach out to me. We would love to have you speak at our next School Nurse Leaders’ Summit