Texans Need Action to Prevent more Shootings

Less than a month after El Paso, another mass shooting has taken place in the Midland-Odessa area. Our thoughts remain with all those affected by the shooting, and we recognize the hard work of the first responders, doctors and nurses treating the victims.

We speak directly to the leaders of our state when we ask that gun violence be addressed immediately. Four out of ten of the deadliest mass shootings in the United States took place in Texas. In 2019 alone, Texas has seen 25 mass shootings in both public and private settings.

We appreciate the step taken by Governor Abbott on Friday to convene a domestic terrorism task force. However, Texans need action immediately to prevent future mass shootings from happening.

Texas Nurses Association is convening a dialogue forum on gun violence to better understand actions that individual nurses can take to curb gun violence. Already, nurses across the state have signed up to participate. We invite any nurses, members and nonmembers, to join us. Email Ellen Martin to be included.

To the nurses in Midland and Odessa: We stand with you and offer our support during this time. We know that the care you provide goes beyond just a job for you and that the effects of this event will go beyond just a day or a weekend.

Resources for nurses:

• Dealing with Traumatic Events
• Coping with Traumatic Events
• Sustaining the Psychological Well-Being of Caregivers While Caring for Disaster Victims
• Coping with Stress Following a Mass Shooting
• Psychological First Aid