Abstract
Accidental injuries and violent assaults are the leading causes of hospital admissions and surgical interventions among adolescents. Nurses and members of the healthcare team must be aware of physical assessment findings among these patients that suggest gang participation and be prepared to not only intervene therapeutically but also ensure safety of patients and the clinical environment. This article highlights key assessment findings associated with gang-related behaviors among adolescents experiencing traumatic injuries and suggests evidence-based approaches to reducing future risks and promoting health of these surgical patients.
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