Needlestick And Sharps Injuries Research Articles

Situation and associated factors of needle stick and sharps injuries among health-care workers in a tertiary hospital: a cross-sectional survey

PurposeThis study aimed to assess the prevalence of and factors associated with needle stick and sharps injuries (NSSIs) among health-care workers (HCWs) in a tertiary hospital in China.Materials and methodsThis retrospective survey was conducted with 562 HCWs at a tertiary hospital in China in July 2023. Information was collected using a self-designed questionnaire, and all enrolled members were required to fill in the demographic characteristics, occurrence of NSSIs and other associated factors in the past year. Logistic analysis was used to identify variables associated with NSSIs.ResultsThe proportion of participants with at least one injury within the year preceding the investigation was 21.2%. Male (AOR = 2.116 [1.265, 3.538]), working hours per week > 40 (AOR = 1.718 [1.056,2.796]), rarely checking blood-borne infections before invasive operations (AOR = 2.219 [1.303,3.782]) were significantly associated with NSSIs.ConclusionThe prevalence of NSSIs was not low in the survey area, especially in male, individuals with longer working hours, and rarely checking blood-borne infections before invasive operations. Therefore, it is necessary to promote educational programs to enhance awareness of standard prevention measures, especially for key populations, and reduce heavy workloads to decrease the occurrence of such injuries.

Assessment of Needlestick and Sharps Injuries (NSSIs) Amongst Orthopaedic Surgeons in Clinical Practice: A Pan-India Cross-Sectional Study.

Needlestick and sharps injuries (NSSIs) represent an existential occupational hazard risk to orthopaedic surgeons during their career due to the interaction with various devices, instruments and bone fragments. Consequently, NSSIs have the potential to transmit infections such as Hepatitis B (HBV), Hepatitis C (HCV) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) leading to serious illness. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to identify the clinical settings predisposing orthopaedic surgeons to NSSIs and assess their adherence to safety protocols in the Indian context. An online cross-sectional survey of 618 orthopaedic surgeons in India, stratified by experience into two groups: under five years and with 5years or more was undertaken. The data were collected via an expert-validated online questionnaire to evaluate demographic distribution, injury characteristics, knowledge of safety protocols, and adherence to these protocols. Descriptive statistics summarized the data, Chi-square tests assessed variable associations, and odds ratios were computed for significant variables. Ethical integrity was maintained via electronic informed consent and for confidentiality assurances. The study revealed that orthopaedic surgeons with less than 5years of clinical experience had higher risks for NSSIs as compared to those with 5 or more years of clinical practice. Conversely, the latter group was more susceptible to bone spike injuries and viral positive needlestick incidents. The analysis shows that whilst the more experienced practitioners displayed greater proficiency in the application of universal precautions and NSSI prevention, they were also less likely to report injuries, often due to discomfiture. Risk profiles were consistent across different practice settings and affiliations, regardless of experience level. This cross-sectional study reveals less experienced orthopaedic surgeons face higher risks of NSSIs, possibly due to inadequate education or awareness. More experienced practitioners encounter distinct risks, likely owing to long-term exposure and traditional practices. There is an immediate need to raise awareness of the potential risks of NSSIs, enhanced education, appropriate training, collaboration with the hospital risk management team and developing a culture of transparent reporting to mitigate these risks. The emphasis should be on reducing the incidence and fostering open reporting of NSSIs to protect clinicians and promote health safety.

Did safety-engineered device implementation contribute to reducing the risk of needlestick and sharps injuries? Retrospective investigation of 20 years of observation in a specialist tertiary referral hospital.

In Poland, there are numerous cases of injuries caused by sharp instruments annually, still significantly more than in other European Union countries. The aim of this study was to analyze work-related injuries among healthcare workers in a selected hospital before and after the implementation of safety-engineered devices (SED). Retrospective analysis of medical documentation regarding occupational needlestick and sharps injuries (NSSI) in a tertiary referral surgical hospital in 1998-2018. The study group consisted of nurses and doctors who had been injured and reported the incident. The frequency of injury reports, injury rate, and characterization of circumstances surrounding NSSI are presented. Over the period of 20 years, a total of 257 NSSI incidents were reported. The average injury rate was statistically significant for nurses (p = 0.004) and was higher before the introduction of SED. Moreover, the number of injuries among nurses showed a downward trend during the study period. However, for doctors, there was no statistically significant difference in the median puncture rate (p = 0.099), and the number of injuries showed an increasing trend. In this study, the authors' have demonstrated not only the occurrence of injuries and punctures in the daily work of medical personnel but also the potential for their reduction through the use of safety equipment at every workstation where healthcare services are provided using sharp medical instruments. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2024;37(2):234-43.

The Epidemiology of Needlestick and Sharp Injuries Among Healthcare Workers in a Secondary Care Hospital in Saudi Arabia: A Retrospective Study.

Introduction Needlestick and sharp injuries (NSI) continue to pose a significant risk for healthcare workers (HCWs) at their workplace. The incidence rate of NSI in hospitals depends on multiple risk factors. This study aimed to analyze the epidemiological characteristics of NSI among HCWs and the risk factors influencing NSI rates and to provide further direction for NSI prevention in secondary care hospitals. Methods This study included all the NSI cases reported by HCWs in King Abdul Aziz Hospital, Makkah from 2005 to 2017. All the cases were recorded in the Exposure Prevention Information Network (EPINet™)database (International Healthcare Worker Safety Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, USA). The study was executed by using data loaded in the EPINet™Program, the hospital electronic recording system Medica Plus, and analyzed by the StatisticalPackage for the Social Sciences program (SPSS Inc. Released 2007. SPSS for Windows, Version 15.0. Chicago, SPSS Inc.). Results During the period of study, 524 NSI cases were reported. The mean incidence rate per 100 occupied beds with 95% CI was 25.43 (22.05-28.81) and a statistically insignificant decline in NSI incidence rate was observed from 2005 to 2017. The maximal annual incidence rate (35.63 per 100 occupied beds) was registered in 2010 and the minimal value (14.84 per 100 occupied beds) in 2013. Injuries were mainly reported in patient rooms/wards (30.2%) and most frequently by nurses (56.1%). The mean of incident reporting within 24 hours was 74.0, 95% CI (67.19-80.73). This rate showed a statistically significant (p=0.01) increasing trend of 5.0% per annum. The mean of identified source patients - 83.5, 95% CI (79.13- 87.23) - possessed an annual 2.1% rise during 2005-2017 which was statistically insignificant (p=0.7). Cases occurred after the use/before disposal of items in 45.0% of cases and during the use of items in 44.7%. Hollow-bore needles caused injuries in 46.5% of incidents. Blood sample taking - 23.2% and IV or arterial line insertion/removal/manipulation (19.1%) - presented exposure-prone procedures posing the highest risk. Conclusions The results of this study revealed a high rate of NSI in the hospital. NSI rate in hospitals was impacted by a group of related risk factors, particularly, the location of risk (patient room/ward, intensive care unit (ICU), and emergency room (ER) depending on job intensity, the kind and frequency of exposure-prone procedures (blood sample taking, IV or arterial line insertion/removal/manipulation) and handling of hollow-bore and solid needle connected to the main healthcare professional group at risk (nurses). Future direction in NSI prevention requires a complex approach of continuous staff education along with the usage of devices with safety features.

Frequency of Needlestick and Sharp Injuries, Their Associated Risk Factors and Safety Measures among Healthcare Workers of Fauji Foundation Hospital, Rawalpindi

Background: Needlestick and sharp injuries (NSSIs) are significant occupational hazards for healthcare workers (HCWs), facilitating the transmission of bloodborne pathogens such as HIV, hepatitis B, and C viruses. Despite known risks, the frequency and associated factors contributing to these injuries in healthcare settings, particularly in developing countries, are not well-documented. Objective: This study aimed to determine the frequency of NSSIs, identify their associated risk factors, and evaluate the safety measures adopted by HCWs in a tertiary care hospital in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to September 2022 at Fauji Foundation Hospital, Rawalpindi. A total of 250 HCWs, including paramedical staff, doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals, participated in the study. Ethical approval was obtained from the Center of Advanced Studies in Health and Technology research committee and the Head of the Department of Pathology. A structured questionnaire was developed to collect data on demographic characteristics, history of NSSIs, risk factors, and safety measures adopted post-injury. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, employing non-parametric tests due to the non-normal distribution of data. Results: Among the participants, 76.8% (n=192) reported experiencing NSSIs at least once during their employment. The highest incidence of NSSIs was observed among HCWs aged 26-30 years (31.6%, n=79) and those with 2-7 years of work experience (50.4%, n=126). The most common risk factors for NSSIs were heavy workload (40%) and recapping of needles (22%). Only 38% (n=95) of HCWs reported the incident, and 44% (n=111) were vaccinated against hepatitis B following exposure. Moreover, 58% (n=145) used personal protective equipment, and 73.6% (n=184) utilized safety boxes for sharp waste disposal post-injury. Conclusion: The study highlights a high prevalence of NSSIs among HCWs, with inadequate reporting and post-exposure prophylaxis. There is a critical need for enhanced training on safe handling of sharps and increased adherence to universal precautions to mitigate the risk of NSSIs in healthcare settings.

Needlestick and Sharp Injuries among Healthcare Workers in the Operating Theatre: Why They Do Not Report Their Incidences

Introduction: Needlestick and Sharp Injuries (NSSIs) pose a significant threat to healthcare workers, particularly in Operating Theatres (OTs), where the risk of exposure is compounded by high-stress environments and the complexity of procedures. Despite the known dangers, a persistent issue of underreporting complicates efforts to safeguard worker and patient health. This paper promotes the adoption of Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) to mitigate these risks, aiming to improve reporting behaviors and, by extension, overall safety within healthcare settings. Methods: This study utilizes a qualitative research approach, combining literature review and case studies to explore the phenomena of NSSI underreporting among healthcare workers. It examines barriers to reporting within OTs, such as fear of repercussions and time constraints, and proposes interventions based on EBP. Research methodology emphasizes the application of theory to practice through multidisciplinary team involvement, workshops, and the establishment of clear, achievable goals. Results: The investigation reveals that while healthcare workers are generally aware of the protocols for reporting NSSIs, a range of barriers inhibits consistent application in practice. The study identifies effective strategies for bridging the theory practice gap, including fostering a constructive learning environment, ensuring leadership support, and promoting open communication. These strategies are shown to facilitate the practical application of theoretical knowledge, thereby improving reporting rates and enhancing safety protocols in OTs. Conclusions: Effectively addressing NSSIs in healthcare settings, particularly in Operating Theatres, requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses education, clear reporting protocols, and a culture of collective responsibility. Bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application through workshops, evidence translation, and an emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration is key to enhancing patient and worker safety. The study underscores the necessity of understanding the multifaceted nature of behavior change in healthcare environments to implement successful EBP strategies.

A large-scale survey on epidemiology and underreporting of needlestick and sharp injuries among healthcare workers in China.

Needlestick and sharp injuries (NSI) carry the risk of transmitting numerous bloodborne pathogens, leading to both health and economic burdens. The underreporting of NSIs among healthcare workers (HCWs) is a global issue of concern, as timely treatment and prevention of complications rely on proper reporting. Underreporting further impedes accurate surveillance and appropriate resource allocation, with developed and developing nations facing disparities due to differences in healthcare policy. The purpose of this research is to examine the epidemiology of NSIs and NSI underreporting, as well as to identify the determinants associated with the occurrence of NSIs and the underreporting of such injuries. A retrospective online survey was conducted from January 15 to January 31, 2022 among healthcare workers (HCWs) across Gansu Province, China. A total of 7,283 healthcare workers (HCWs) from various institutions participated in this study. After quality assurance checks, 6,464 (88.77%) responses were included in the final analysis. Results revealed a 32.86% self-reported needlestick and sharp injury (NSI) incidence among respondents, with 28.53% of NSIs going unreported. Contrary to common belief, more experienced HCWs exhibited higher rates of both NSIs and underreporting compared to their less experienced peers. The primary reasons cited for NSIs and underreporting were lapses in concentration and not perceiving patients as infectious. Multivariate regression analysis exposes the significant influence of training frequency, occupation, department and years of services on the occurrence of NSIs. Conversely, the reporting of NSIs is primarily influenced by training, reimbursement,occupation, department and hospital grade. Compared to HCWs with no training, those who received ≥3 training sessions per year showed a 12.16% lower NSI incidence (27.12% vs. 39.28%, p < 0.001) and a 55.68% lower underreporting rate (14.61% vs. 70.29%, p < 0.001). There is a pressing need for enhanced surveillance, tailored training programs, and more efficient reporting mechanisms to combat this significant occupational health challenge.

Needlestick and sharps injuries among healthcare workers in an oncology setting: a retrospective 7-year cross-sectional study.

To assess the prevalence of needlestick and sharps injuries (NSSIs) and associated factors among healthcare workers (HCWs) at King Hussein Cancer Centre (KHCC), Amman, Jordan. This retrospective cross-sectional study undertook a chart review of all HCWs that reported an NSSI between January 2015 and December 2021. Data collected included sociodemographic factors including age, sex, qualifications, and predictors of NSSIs such as working hours, work shift, and specific job roles within the oncology setting, work experience in KHCC, overall work experience and occupational category. A total of 355 NSSIs were included in this study with a peak prevalence in 2019 (81 of 355; 22.8%). Nurses (220 of 355; 62.0%), housekeeping staff (59of 355; 16.6%) and physicians (45 of 355; 12.7%) were the most affected occupations. NSSIs were most common in the surgical floor (65 of 355; 18.3%) and operating rooms (56 of 355; 15.8%). Blood collection (94 of 355; 26.5%) and waste collection (65 of 355; 18.3%) were the two primary procedures resulting in NSSIs. The risk of injury was significantly associated with the locations of NSSIs, procedure that caused NSSIs, shift and overall experience. NSSIs remain common among HCWs, which highlights the need for targeted education.

Prevalence and Characteristics of Needle Stick and Sharp Injuries Among King Salman Armed Forces Hospital Personnel in Tabuk City: A Retrospective Hospital-Based Study.

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated characteristics of needle stickand sharp injuries (NSSIs) among King Salman Armed Forces Hospital (KSAFH) personnel. Data was collected by reviewing all reported NSSIs among KSAFH personnel between January 2020 to December 2022. The prevalence of NSSIs was 2.05%, with nurses being the most commonly affected. Most injuries occurred in patients' rooms/wardsand among health care workers (HCWs) aged < 40 years. Of the injured workers, 93.8% were immunized against hepatitis B virus (HBV). Educational and training programs targeting high-risk age groups and professions should be developed. Policies related to locations and situations where injuries occur frequently should be reviewed regularly to reduce the risk of NSSIs.

PREVALENCE OF SHARP INJURY AMONG STAFF NURSES IN A TERTIARY HOSPITAL: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Background:Healthcare settings pose a major occupational hazard to their employees. Needlestick and sharps injuries (NSSIs) are one of the major risk factors for blood-borne infection among healthcare workers. Materials and Method: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out in a tertiary healthcare hospital in Lucknow district with the objectives of assessing the prevalence of sharp injury among staff nurses and the safety precautions taken after the occurrence of sharp injury. The study participants included the staff nurses at various departments of the hospital who were randomly selected for the study. Thus a total of 85 staff nurses were selected and interviewed after taking verbal consent. Results and Discussion: The majority (54.1%) of the staff nurses were in the age group of 26-35 years. Out of the total, 32.9% had an incident of sharp injury. Needle (67.9%) accounted for the maximum injury. Of the total that got injured, injury occurred during the use of sharp item (82.1%) and of the total that got injured, only 28.6% took post-exposure prophylaxis as injection TT. Conclusion: In the present study almost half of the participants had an occurrence of sharp injury over the past one year. And poor post exposure prophylaxis practices were observed.

Needlestick and sharps injuries at a German university hospital: epidemiology, causes and preventive potential - a descriptive analysis.

To analyze the number, epidemiology and circumstances of needlestick and sharps injuries (NSSI) and exposures to body fluids and to identify further preventive measures to improve the occupational safety of health care workers (HCW). Setting: German university tertiary-care referral center. Retrospective study based on injury documentation sheets of the hospital's staff and faculty health service and, if given, on reports by continuity doctors and by the accident and emergency department in January 2014-June 2016. Altogether, 567 injuries were registered with a significant decrease of cases over the study period. The majority of accidents occurred in the operating theater (35%). Stress, time pressure, overstrain, carelessness and distraction were found to be the main reasons for injuries. At least 30% of the cases were preventable, mainly by wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), by proper disposal of an item and by early replacement of overfilled sharps containers (SC). In 20% of the cases involving an item, the injury was caused by a safety-engineered device (SED). Almost one-third of these injuries were attributable to an improper use of the SED. Despite many efforts made to reduce their number, NSSI still occur. Health care workers and students should be offered regular trainings to be sensitized to this topic and to learn the appropriate use of SED. Moreover, organizational measures must be taken, such as the provision of suitable PPE and safe SC. Strategies need to be established to improve the working conditions and reduce the stress level of HCW. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2022;35(5):497-507.

Prevalence of Sharps Injuries at a Tertiary Teaching Oral Health Centre, Gauteng, South Africa

Needle-stick and sharps injuries are an occupational hazard in dental training institutions. The study aimed to quantify and describe the nature of Needle-stick and sharp injuries (NSI) at a Tertiary Teaching Oral Health Centre (TTOHC) in South Africa. An analytic, cross-sectional study was conducted among students engaged in clinical service and oral health staff supervising them at the Oral Health Centre, Gauteng, South Africa. An adapted 18-item self-administered questionnaire was provided to all students and staff. Standard ethical guidelines were followed according to institutional ethics committee approval (M171131). A response rate of 88% (n=73) was obtained from students, with the majority of participants being female(67%), dentistry students (88 %), aged between 18-25 years, in their fourth year of study (45%) while only 3.7% were final year oral hygiene students. The staff participants were dentists (80.6%) while most staff participants (88.3%) were employed for 3 years or less. The NSI prevalence at the TTOHC was 41.3% (n=45). The number of staff reporting the injury for both staff and students was recorded to be 80% (n = 36 of 45 injuries), with 77.3% of injured individuals receiving post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) against possible HIV-infection, however, more than a third (39%) reported not to have completed the PEP. The department in which the most NSIs occurred was Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery. Sharp injuries were mostly due to needle sticks. Most NSIs occurred among senior students with more clinical experiences and particularly during the early and late periods in a year. The prevalence of needle and sharp injuries was high and of concern. The sharps injury reporting rate was good, however, less than half of injured individuals completed the PEP treatment. The findings highlighted which students were most at risk to encounter NSI, including the period during their training when it was most likely to occur, thus enabling directed re-emphasis and training in Infection Control and Prevention.

Rates of underreported needlestick and sharps injuries among healthcare workers in Turkey: in the light of Infection Control Committee data.

Doctors and nurses are frequently exposed to needlestick and sharps injuries (NSIs) because of their work. It is estimated that NSIs are more common than the rates reported to Infection Control Committee. The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence and reporting rates of NSIs in our hospital. After their consent forms were obtained for the questionnaire, 670 doctors and nurses were interviewed face-to-face by the Infection Control Committee nurse. The questionnaire consisted of 22 questions, and the answers were recorded. The questions were on demographic data and injuries. The data of NSIs, whose active surveillance was made in our hospital since 2005 and in the last 1 year, were also analyzed retrospectively. A total of 119 (17%) people out of 670 people who participated in the study had at least one NSI; 43 (36%) people of the 119 people were doctors and 76 (63.9%) people were nurses. The most common injuries among doctors were found in assistant doctors (60%). No statistically significant differences were detected between the doctors and nurses in terms of injury status (P = 0.398). The most common injuries were found in surgical clinics, and a significant difference was detected here when compared to other clinics. The data that 20 (17%) people of the 118 people who were injured by the NSIs reported the injury were obtained from the Infection Control Committee database. It is seen that injuries are high in surgical clinics and assistant doctors who have high work stress and workload. There were more injuries with sharp objects than the expected rates in our hospital although the reports were made very rarely. First of all, we should determine strategies, especially education, to reduce injuries, and then remove the obstacles to unreported injuries. The methods of clinics with a high rates of reporting needlestick and sharps injuries to the infection control committee should be examined and tried to be applied in our own clinics.

Characteristics of needlestick and sharps injuries of the hands in the operating room among orthopedic surgeons in Japan.

Among the reports on needlestick and sharps injuries (NSIs), many are orthopedic-related due to the frequent use of sharp devices such as pins and wires. This study aimed to identify high-risk instruments, the most common injury sites for each instrument, and the circumstances of NSIs of the hand during orthopedic surgeries in Japan. Incidents of exposure to blood or bodily fluids among physicians during orthopedic surgeries reported to the Japan-EPINet between 2000 and 2015 were included in this study. The four most common devices were identified and the associations among years of experience, equipment users, and injured sites were analyzed. We identified 666 cases of NSIs affecting orthopedic surgeons in the operating room. The instrument most frequently responsible for NSIs was suture needles, which were involved in 265 cases (39.7%). The second most common instrument was pins/wires, which was involved in 111 cases (16.6%). NSIs of the hands of orthopedic surgeons were frequently caused by suture needles used in all surgeries, but relatively often caused by orthopedic devices. Orthopedic surgeons must be aware that they are at risk of NSIs and must take appropriate measures and always be cautious when performing surgery, regardless of their years of experience.

Prevalence, Underreporting and Barriers of Needle Stick and Sharps Injuries (NSSIs) among Nurses at Primary Healthcare Centers, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Prevalence, Underreporting and Barriers of Needle Stick and Sharps Injuries (NSSIs) among Nurses at Primary Healthcare Centers, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Association of overtime work and obesity with needle stick and sharp injuries in medical practice.

BACKGROUNDNeedle stick and sharps injuries (NSIs) may cause infections among medical personnel. Obesity and overtime work among medical personnel increase the incidence of work injuries.AIMTo investigate whether overtime work and obesity increase the risk of NSIs.METHODSThis cross-sectional study used the data of 847 hospital personnel, including 104 doctors, 613 nurses, 67 medical laboratory scientists, 54 specialist technicians, and nine surgical assistants. Of them, 29 participants notified the hospital of having at least one NSI in 2017. The data collected included age, overtime work, body mass index, medical specialty such as doctor or nurse, and professional grade such as attending physician or resident. The χ2 and Fisher’s exact tests were used to compare categorical variables. Multiple logistic regression analysis and the Sobel test were used to assess the risk of NSIs.RESULTSOvertime work, body weight, and medical specialty were significantly associated with NSIs (P < 0.05). After adjustment for risk factors, heavy overtime work was an independent risk factor for NSIs, and healthy body weight and nursing specialty were independent protective factors against NSIs. After adjustment for risk factors, medical personnel with healthy body weight has half as many NSIs as those with unhealthy body weight; the proportion of NSIs in doctors with healthy body weight was 0.2 times that in doctors with unhealthy body weight; the proportion of injuries among residents was 17.3 times higher than that among attending physicians; the proportion of injuries among junior nurses was 3.9 times higher than that among experienced nurses; the proportion of injuries among nurses with heavy overtime work was 6.6 times higher than that among nurses with mild overtime work; and the proportion of injuries among residents was 19.5 times higher than that among junior nurses. Heavy overtime work mediated the association of medical specialty with NSIs.CONCLUSIONIn addition to promoting the use of safety needles and providing infection control education, managers should review overtime schedules, and medical personnel should be encouraged to maintain a healthy weight.

800. Needle Stick And Sharps Injuries Among Health Care Workers – The Experience of a Tertiary Hospital in Jamaica

BackgroundDespite advances in occupational safety protocols in healthcare facilities, needle stick and sharps injuries (NSSIs) continue to be a concerning occurrence among healthcare workers (HCWs). Such exposures lead to the risk of blood borne infections as well as emotional and financial consequences which may be difficult to measure. Few studies on NSSIs among Jamaican HCWs have been published in the last decade. We evaluated adherence to established NSSIs management protocols and investigated the demographic and work-related characteristics of HCWs sustaining NSSIs. The proportion of HCWs affected and frequency and direct costs associated with these injuries were estimated.MethodsThis retrospective case-series reviewed HCWs employed or contracted to an urban tertiary teaching hospital in Jamaica, who reported NSSIs in the emergency room during the period January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2018. Archived incident reporting forms for these HCWs were reviewed. Data were analyzed using STATA 14 statistical software.Results57 cases of NSSIs were reported at an average rate of 1 per month and an annual incidence of 0.14 per 100 beds and 4.75 per 100 workers. 49 (86%) HCWs were female and 18 (14%) were male. 55% of HCWs were between the ages of 24-29 years old. Nurses (53%) and physicians (19%) made up most of the sample. 28 (58%) HCWs reported not wearing gloves during the incident. Improperly handling used sharps and re-capping needles were reported by 26 (46.5%) and 17 (30%) of HCWs respectively. HIV and viral Hepatitis screening of source patients were performed 85% and 55% of the time respectively. Only 25% of HCWs were prescribed HIV post exposure prophylaxis. Post-injury counselling occurred with 52 (91%) HCWs and follow up care arranged for 36% of cases. The mean direct cost associated with the initial management of the HCW was US &163.22 per NSSI.ConclusionThe frequency of reported NSSIs by HCWs is low but the burden of direct costs is high. There is inadequate adherence to NSSIs management protocols and accurate monitoring systems are lacking. We recommend the need for safer needle disposal methods and devices, routine auditing of sharps practices and training in occupational hazard prevention and management. This may improve occupational risk perception among HCWs and workplace safety. Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

What were the changes during the COVID-19 pandemic era concerning occupational risks among health care workers?

BackgroundAccidental exposure to percutaneous needle stick and sharp injuries (NSSIs) and blood and other body fluids is the unintended contact with risky medical instruments or patient secretions during a medical intervention. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the significance of occupational injuries in healthcare professionals was revealed once again. To assess the occupational injuries, we compared rates, distribution and type of exposure to blood and body fluids and NSSIs of health care workers for 2019 (pre-pandemic era) and 2020 (pandemic era) years, respectively. Material and methodsOur study included data collected by the ‘Hospital Infection Control Committee’ for the years 2019–2020. Data collected using the active surveillance method were analyzed retrospectively. ResultsDuring 2019 (pre-pandemic period) and 2020 (pandemic period), 112 (27.65%0) and 82 (21.4%0) NSSIs reported, respectively. Of the exposed HCWs in 2019 (pre-pandemic period), 16.8%0 (14) were doctor, 53.6%0 (60) were nurse and 47.4%0 (14) were intern doctors. In the 2020 (pandemic period), NSSIs were observed most frequently in nurses and cleaning staff, 50.24%0 and 33.64%0, respectively. Concerning the total percentage of exposure to blood and other body fluids, a slight increase was revealed from 1.48%0 to 2.62%0 in 2019 and 2020, respectively. A significant decrease in exposure rate was reported among the doctors between the pre-pandemic and pandemic era; 3.6%0 and 1.19%0 at 2019 and 2020, respectively. A significant increase in exposure rate was reported among the nurses between pre-pandemic and pandemic era; 0.8%0 and 6.89%0, respectively. ConclusionIn conclusion, the exposure to NSSIs during the pandemic period decreased; however, there was no severe difference at pre-pandemic and pandemic periods concerning exposure to blood and body fluids. Well-designed training and awareness programs can be effective in preventing exposure to NSSIs and blood and other body fluids and exposure to respiratory acquired viruses.

Needle-stick and sharps injuries: awareness, prevalence and risk factors of a global problem in healthcare workers at Tanta University Hospitals, Egypt

ABSTRACT Objectives. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness, prevalence and risk factors of needle-stick and sharps injuries (NSSIs) in Tanta University Hospitals, Egypt to develop a well-established preventive strategy. Methods. A total of 662 healthcare workers (HCWs), including nurses and physicians, who attended work during the last 6 months of 2019 were included. Data were collected on a structured questionnaire distributed during their working time. Results. Of 662 participating HCWs, 486 were nurses and 176 were physicians. Good awareness (86.1 and 83.1%) of the participants about safe injection policy and sharp disposal after use was observed. Nurses showed a significantly higher percentage of poor awareness score (79.1%) than physicians (20.9%). NSSIs in our hospitals reached 60.4%. Nurses (67.9%) had higher risk of NSSIs than physicians (39.8%; p < 0.001). NSSIs were significantly less likely to occur for HCWs who were aware of safe injection and sharp disposal policies. NSSIs were frequent with specimen collection (16.4%), injections (15.5%) and sharp disposal (14.6%). Only 110 (27.5%) have reported their injuries. Conclusion. A comprehensive program that addresses institutional, behavioral and device-related factors that contribute to the occurrence of NSSIs and reporting systems is needed.

Risk Factors of Needlestick and Sharp Injuries among Health Care Workers at Sanglah Tertiary Hospital

Background: Needlestick and sharp injuries (NSIs) remain one of the main occupational hazards among health care workers (HCWs) that lead to blood-borne pathogen exposure. Purpose: This study examined the risk factors for NSIs among HCWs at a tertiary referral hospital in Bali. Methods: A case-control study was conducted at Sanglah General Hospital, Bali, involving 171 HCWs, divided into 81 cases and 90 control subjects. The sample was selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected using questionnaires and analyzed using multiple logistic regression. Results: The majority of respondents had experienced NSIs once, in the morning shift, and had affected an individual’s hands. The most frequent activity leading to NSIs was giving an injection and most of the situations causing NSIs involved accidental self-action, and recapping needles. Factors associated with the incidence of NSIs were work career or experience of &lt;5 years (p &lt; 0.01; adjusted odds ratio [AOR]=5.04; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.04–12.42), non-compliance with working procedures (p = 0.01; AOR = 2.47; 95%CI= 1.26–4.82), female HCWs (p = 0.03; AOR = 2.21; 95% CI = 1.01–4.55), and unsafe workplace conditions (p = 0.04; AOR = 2.23; 95% CI = 1.01–4.92). Conclusion: Personal and environmental factors such as gender, work experience, compliance with working procedures, and workplace conditions are among the risk factors for NSIs. Occupational health and safety policies and programs focusing on the relevant factors, accompanied by adequate supervision, are necessary to reduce the risk of NSIs occurring.