Analysis of risk factors for occupationally acquired HBV, HCV, HIV infections in Polish paramedics

Abstract

Abstract Background Paramedics constitute a group of professionals constantly exposed to potentially infectious biological material through close contacts with patients, possibly resulting in occupationally acquired infections. Objectives To assess the prevalence and to analyze selected risk factors for occupationally acquired HBV, HCV and HIV infections among Polish paramedics. Methods Between December 2018-April 2019 a cross-sectional sero-survey was conducted in 6 randomly selected ambulance stations in the West Pomeranian region of Poland with the use of an anonymous questionnaire. Serum samples were assessed for anti-HBc total, anti-HCV, anti-HIV with the use of 3rd-generation testing methods. Results Response rate was 83%; 141 participants (82% males, median age 33 years, median length of practice 11.9 years) agreed to participate. Anti-HBc were found in 7% participants, none of infected individuals was aware of an infection; no anti-HCV/anti-HIV positive paramedics were recognized. Risk factors for occupationally acquired infections were as follows: 5.1% paramedics were not vaccinated against HBV, 18.3% sustained ≥ 1 sharps injury in the preceding year (44.4% of incidents were not reported), 95.6% irregularly used masks/goggles, 6.2% used gloves irregularly (the lack of availability was the most commonly stated reason), 5.1% had never participated in infection control training, 61.6 % did not use safety engineered devices at work, 52.2% reported recapping a needle in the last 12 months. The risk of a single exposure to HBV was correctly defined by 40.2 % of participants, to HCV - by 33.0%, to HIV - by 28.3%. Conclusions Most risk factors for occupationally acquired blood-borne infections among Polish paramedics are modifiable. Unsatisfactory knowledge about the occupational exposure risks and poor compliance with infection-control procedures call for better risk recognition and assessment to reduce HBV, HCV and HIV infections in this group of health professionals. Key messages Paramedics showed detectable markers of HBV infection; individuals with not recognized occupationally acquired infection could be a source of infection for patients. Existing policies should be reinforced, and better surveillance for occupational risks should be instituted to minimize occupational blood borne infections among paramedics.