Pediatric firearm-related injuries in the South Carolina upstate: A descriptive analysis

Objective To evaluate and identify commonalities among pediatric firearm-related injuries in the diverse metropolitan and micropolitan population of Upstate South Carolina. Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted of 104 patients aged 0–17 years who presented to Greenville Memorial Hospital from January 1, 2017 to July 1, 2023 and were diagnosed with a firearm-related injury. Results Patients were predominantly male (77.9%), Black (54.8%), with an average age of 11.9 years. Unintentional injury was the most common intent among all ages and races (44.2%). Unintentional injury was more likely among pre-teens, while assaultive/homicidal injuries were more likely among ages 13–17 ( p = 0.002). Assault/homicide was more likely among Black children, and self-inflicted injuries were more likely among White children ( p = 0.039). Residence was the most common location (46.2%). Of the patients eligible for psychiatric consultation, 21.5% received one. The distress level of the community impacted frequency, though it was not predictive of intent. Conclusions Though disparities based upon sex and race exist, unintentional firearm-related injury is universally problematic in the Upstate South Carolina. Efforts directed at reducing unintentional injuries, improving documentation, and championing psychiatric consults may reduce pediatric firearm-related injuries and sequelae in the Upstate.