Occupational Hazard For Healthcare Workers Research Articles

Financial impact of needle stick injury on a tertiary care teaching hospital

BackgroundAccidental needle stick injuries (NSIs) are an occupational hazard for healthcare workers (HCWs). Despite the implementation of preventive measures, NSIs still continue to occur in health care settings. The cost incurred by an institute for the management of occupational exposure to blood borne pathogen is a significant economic burden.This retrospective study was aimed to estimate the prevalence, factors associated with NSIs and cost burden on hospital due to NSIs. Material and methodsRetrospective data of all reported NSIs among HCWs between January 2019 and December 2021 in a tertiary care hospital was collected and analyzed. CDC definition was used to calculate direct & indirect cost. Results& Discussion- A total 205 NSIs were reported between January 2019 and December 2021. Nurses were the most affected category of HCWs. The maximum number of NSI cases (18.54 %) occurred during handling of biomedical waste. Both the source and the affected HCWs were tested and it was found that the source was seropositive in 30(14.63 %), seronegative in 128 (62.44 %) cases and in 47(22.93 %) cases there was an unknown source resulting in NSI. A total of 13, 21,206 INR, which included both direct and indirect cost, spent by hospital in the management of NSI's, over a period of 3yrs. ConclusionSurveillance and analysis of NSI is very crucial for the planning of both preventive measures and training modules. Managing NSI generates significant cost. Hepatitis B vaccination for all healthcare workers plays major role in reducing cost of managing NSIs.

Hepatitis B immunisation and immune status of nurses in a regional hospital in central South Africa.

The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is one of the most important biological occupational hazards for healthcare workers. A high percentage of HBV infections are attributable to percutaneous occupational exposure. This study aimed to describe the HBV immunisation and current immune status of all the nurses employed in a regional hospital in central South Africa. A descriptive record review included all the nurses (N= 388) employed in a regional hospital in central South Africa from 01 January 2018 to 31 January 2020. A total of 289 health records were included in the study. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Logistic regression analysis was used to establish factors associated with full immunisation. Most nurses were females (87.9%), working in medical (27.0%) wards. Only 20.4% of nurses received one dose of vaccine, while 51.2% received the three prescribed doses. However, 91.2% of nurses did not receive the vaccine at the correct intervals. Most of the tested nurses (71.0%) were immune. Immunisation status was significantly associated with religion (p 0.001) and schedule (p= 0.003). Nurses who were non-Christians were 35.9% less likely to be fully vaccinated compared to Christians. Half of the nursing staff received three doses as prescribed. All nurses should receive the vaccine against HBV and their immune status monitored to minimise the risk of an infection. It is therefore recommended that proof of immunity should be a requirement.Contribution:This study found a high percentage of nurses with HBV antibodies, which will ensure workplace safety.

Evaluation of occupational health and safety training for nursing students

Introduction. Nurses, who constitute the largest part of the healthcare team, start to encounter many occupational exposures from the beginning of their education and this exposure continues throughout their professional lives.
 Aim. The aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of occupational health and safety education on the knowledge levels of second year nursing students.
 Materials and Methods. The sample of the quasi-experimental research with a single-group pre-test post-test design consisted of 261 second-year nursing students. The data of the research were collected with the "Descriptive Characteristics Questionnaire" and the "Occupational Health and Safety Training Questionnaire" between March-June 2018.
 Results. The average age of the students participating in the research is 20.87±1.31. When the pre-test and post-test occupational health and safety knowledge levels of nursing students were compared, it was found that the rates of knowing the occupational health and safety law correctly, knowing the responsibilities of the employees, knowing the occupational hazards for the health workers, and knowing what to do to prevent the sharps injuries were statistically significant. level was found to increase (p <0.05).
 Conclusion. In the study, in which the effect of occupational health and safety education given to second-year nursing students on occupational health and safety knowledge levels was evaluated, it was determined that the education provided an increase in the students' knowledge of occupational health and safety law, occupational hazards and protection from occupational hazards for healthcare workers, notification of occupational accidents and waste management.

How Sharp Objects Injuries Impact our Healthcare Workers: Unveiling Perspective and Preventive Imperatives.

Introduction Sharp object injuries in the medical field present a considerable occupational hazard for healthcare workers (HCWs), encompassing a spectrum of consequences from immediate discomfort to enduring health consequences. These injuries may expose HCWs to potential infections. Despite efforts to control sharp object injuries in healthcare environments, they are present at every stage involving using or disposing of medical sharp instruments. In Jordan, limited research has focused on sharp object injuries, with most data included from studies concentrating on practicing nurses or nursing students. Consequently, further research is necessary to comprehend the causes behind the high sharp object injury rate and the insufficient knowledge of safety practices and preventive guidelines. Objectives This study was conducted to investigate the impact of sharp object injuries on HCWs, underlying causes,and potential consequences causes of needlestick injuries. To highlight perspective and preventive imperatives. Methods and patients This retrospective institutional-based cross-sectional chart analysis was conducted by reviewing all sharp object injuries report sheets and extracting data directly from these reports for analysis. The study encompassed all reported cases occurring between 2018 and 2023. All the participants' data handling was accomplished according to the Declaration of Helsinki (2013) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability (HIPAA) Acts. Results A total of 146 self-reported hospital workers were included in the study. Within the final cohort, 52.73% of the participants were male (77/146), with an average age at diagnosis of 38.6±7.87 years (ranging from 20 to 52 years). Conversely, females comprised 47.27% of the cohort population (69/146) and had an average age at diagnosis of 34.73±6.73 years (ranging from 19 to 47 years). The age group 20-29 years was the most prominent age group, statistical analysis of age and gender data revealed significant differences. The overall prevalence of sharp object injuries was 11.83%, indicating that a sizable portion of HCWs is at risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Among the different professional categories, Physicians constituted the majority of sharp object injuries reported victims in 41 cases (28.08%), followed by nurses in 38 cases (26.02%).Statistical analysis of the profession's data revealed significant differences (P<0.001). Notably, sharp object injuries were most reported in wards. The leading procedures that caused sharp object injuries were identified as during needle recapping in 53 instances (36.30%), then followed by medical waste treatment in 32 cases (21.92%). The left hand was the most affected body part, reported in 83 cases (56.84%).All injured individuals reported the incident promptly. No seroconversions were documented within the reviewed cases during the study period. Conclusion Injuries caused by sharp objects persist as a significant danger for hospital employees, posing immediate harm and long-term health risks linked to bloodborne pathogens. The findings stress the continuous responsibility of healthcare institutions to prioritize staff safety by addressing the root causes of sharp object injuries and fostering reporting and prevention cultures. Underreporting reasons are diverse, encompassing factors like time constraints, fear of consequences, and the misconception of injury insignificance.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Hepatitis B Vaccination among Dentists in Lebanon.

The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a serious occupational hazard for healthcare workers, including dentists. The purpose of this study is to assess dentists' knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) with respect to hepatitis B vaccination. A cross-sectional survey of a representative sample of dentists (n = 349) from Lebanon was carried out. Participants' knowledge of hepatitis B, attitudes toward vaccination, and immunization habits were assessed using a standardized questionnaire. To examine the data, descriptive statistics were used, and associations between variables were investigated using appropriate statistical tests. The study found that most participating dentists are HBV-vaccinated. These dentists boast a basic to a significantly substantial understanding of HBV infection prevention strategies, such as immunization, routine preventive measures, and handling equipment. Notwithstanding the generally positive attitudes towards vaccination, a proportion of dentists lacked some HBV prevention practices, specifically with respect to conducting regular follow-ups of anti-HBs titer levels and getting booster vaccination doses when warranted. This study sheds light on the KAP of hepatitis B immunization among Lebanese dentists. The findings emphasize the significance of focused educational efforts in view of improving awareness and encouraging a more thorough understanding of the benefits of vaccination. The study provides useful data that can be used to influence public health policies as well as activities aimed at increasing hepatitis B vaccination rates among dental professionals in Lebanon. How to cite this article: Yared G, Sokhn ES, Al-Khatib A, et al. Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Hepatitis B Vaccination among Dentists in Lebanon. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(2):134-140.

Awareness, Perception, and Practice Regarding Needle-Stick Injury and Its Prevention Among Healthcare Workers in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Southern India.

Background Needle stick injuries caused by various sharp and other items like hypodermic needlesand intravenous cannulas are important occupational hazards for healthcare workers (HCW). Preventing injuries is the most effective way to protect workers and requires good awareness and perceptions associated with practice on a daily basis. Therefore, we did a descriptive cross-sectional study involving healthcare workers in a tertiary care hospital to find the level of awareness, perception, and practice associated with needle stick injury and its prevention. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital, in south India. 400 healthcare workers (doctors, nurses, technicians, and housekeeping staff) with more than one year of experience were randomly selected. An anonymous, self-reporting, semi-structured questionnaire was administered. Results are expressed in mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentages. Results Out of 400 respondents, 89% had good awareness about proper disposal practices. However,44% of the participants had the misbelief that recapping needles was recommended to prevent needle stick injury (NSI), and 30.5% practiced it, with the doctors being the majority. The majority (79.8%) knew that HIV, Hepatitis B & C are blood-borne pathogens that HCWs are most commonly exposed to through needle-stick injury (NSI). However, only 49% knew that Hepatitis B has the highest risk of transmission following a needle prick. 75% were aware of the correct Hepatitis B vaccination doses. Most of the healthcare workers (89.5%) claimed to be aware of the procedure and guidelines to be followed after a needle stick injury and 96% felt that they would report NSI immediately. Awareness regarding Hepatitis C prevention was comparatively poor, with only 47% having knowledge regarding the non-availability of Hepatitis C Vaccination and& 46% about the non-availability of post-exposure prophylaxis for Hepatitis C. Among the healthcare workers, 61% were worried about having needle stick injuries but 56.5% felt that their own personal safety is secondary to patient care. Among the HCWs, 91.3% believed that needle stick injuries can be prevented. Most of the participants (93.5%) ensure that others around them take extra precautions while handling sharp/ needles. The majority, i.e. 88%, utilized a designated container for disposal of sharp items, whileonly 53% of respondents utilized a needle cutter or shredder. 85% of HCWs had attended specific training programs on the usage of safe devices/sharps in the preceding one-year period and 72.8% had completed the vaccination against Hepatitis B. Conclusion Awareness regarding needle stick injury and its prevention is patchy and not adequate across different sections of healthcare workers. Perceptions regarding needle stick injury and its prevention revealed an overall positive attitude. Practices related to needle stick injury and its prevention seem to be reasonably good except when related to recapping and waiting to dispose of until the completion of the session. Training sessions need to be tailored for specific participant groups and a 'one size fits all' philosophy cannot be followed.

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.

Occupational Exposure to Antineoplastic Drugs in Twelve French Health Care Setting: Biological Monitoring and Surface Contamination

Antineoplastic drugs used in the treatment of cancers have an intrinsic toxicity, because of their genotoxic, teratogenic, and carcinogenic properties. Their use is recognized as an occupational hazard for healthcare workers (HCWs) who may be exposed. The purpose of this article is to present biological- and environmental-monitoring data collected in twelve French hospitals over eight years. Urine samples were collected from a wide range of HCWs (250 participants) from pharmacy and oncology units, including physicians, pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, nurses, auxiliary nurses, and cleaners. The investigated drugs were cyclophosphamide, ifosfamide, methotrexate, and α-fluoro-β-alanine, the main urinary metabolite of 5-fluorouracil. Wipe samples were collected from various locations in pharmacy and oncology units. More than 50% of participants, from all exposure groups, were contaminated with either drug, depending on the unit, the day, or the task performed. However, workers from oncology units were more frequently exposed than workers from pharmacy units. Significant contamination was detected on various surfaces in pharmacy and oncology units, highlighting potential sources of exposure. Risk-management measures should be implemented to reduce and maintain exposures at lowest-possible levels. In addition, regular exposure assessment, including biological and environmental monitoring, is recommended to ensure the long-term efficiency of the prevention measures.

Needlestick and sharp injuries and its associated factors among healthcare workers in Southern Ethiopia.

Needlesticks and sharp injuries are occupational hazards for healthcare workers that result from the accidental piercing of the skin. Needlestick injuries expose healthcare workers to blood and body fluids that may be infected and can be transmitted to them. Healthcare workers have been exposed to blood-borne pathogens through contaminated needles and other sharp materials every day. Around 20 blood-borne diseases can be transmitted through casual needlesticks and sharp injuries. To assess needlestick and sharp injuries and its associated factors among healthcare workers in Southern Ethiopia, 2021. The hospital-based cross-sectional study design was conducted among 341 healthcare workers in Worabe Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from June 10 to July 6, 2021. A stratified sampling technique was used and data were collected using standardized structural questionnaires by BSc nursing professionals. The collected data were checked for completeness and consistency by the investigator. The completed questionnaire was given an identification number and entered into EpiData version 3.5.1. The data were coded and analyzed using SPSS version 26 using a binary logistic regression model and presented with texts, tables, and graphs. The finding revealed that 30.6% of healthcare workers had experienced needlestick and sharp injuries within their working area. Healthcare workers not trained on safety measures of needlestick and sharp injury (adjusted odds ratio: 7.179 (3.494-14.749)), working in the delivery unit (adjusted odds ratio: 6.528 (3.171-11.834)), being older age (adjusted odds ratio: 3.394 (1.775-7.126)), working in inpatient unit (3.278 (1.804-5.231)), working in an emergency unit (adjusted odds ratio: 5.718 (4.326-6.398)), working in an operation room theater (adjusted odds ratio: 2.359 (1.781-4.430)), working as a medical laboratory technician (adjusted odds ratio: 1.070 (1.432-3.304)), working in pediatrics unit (adjusted odds ratio: 1.063 (1.431-2.843)), working as cleaners (adjusted odds ratio: 0.018 (0.002-0.195)), working <40 h per week (adjusted odds ratio: 0.036 (0.004-0.345)), and seldom needle recapping (adjusted odds ratio: 0.043 (0.015-0.125)) were statistically associated with needlestick and sharp injury. In this study, there is a high magnitude of needlestick or sharp injuries among healthcare workers. Lack of training on work-related safety measures; working in delivery; being older age; working in the inpatient unit, emergency, operation room, and pediatrics units; being laboratory technicians, and cleaners; working hours per week; and seldom needle recapping were significant predictors of needlestick and sharp injury.

Disease Burden of Hepatitis B Infection and Section Vaccination Trends in Healthcare Workers: A Prospective Cohort Study

Introduction: Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection is an important occupational hazard for Healthcare Workers (HCWs), with an approximately four-fold increased risk of acquiring this infection compared to the normal population. The horizontal mode of transmission is the predominant mode among HCWs. Additionally, vaccination trends among HCWs have been disappointing, with paramedics reported to have a higher risk of HBV transmission and receiving HBV vaccination less often than doctors. Aim: To determine the burden of hepatitis B infection and vaccination trends among HCWs. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Pandit Bhagwat Dayal Sharma PGIMS, Rohtak Haryana, India, from March 2019 to January 2020, enrolling 250 HCWs. The study included 80 junior residents, 17 house surgeons, 123 nursing staff, 18 Laboratory Technicians (LTs), and 12 Operation Theatre Assistants (OTAs). The subjects were divided into two groups: medical workers (Group-1; House Surgeons and Junior Residents) and paramedical workers (Group-2; Nursing staff, LTs, OTAs). The sample size was calculated using Probability Proportion to Size (PPS) of HCWs. Descriptive statistics were performed. Results: None of the subjects tested positive for Hepatitis B surface Antigen (HBsAg) during the study period. A total of 196 (78.4%) subjects were vaccinated, while 54 (21.6%) subjects remained Non-Vaccinated (NV). Out of the 196 vaccinated subjects, 140 (71.4%) were Completely Vaccinated (CV), and 56 (28.6%) were Incompletely Vaccinated (IV). The vaccination rate was highest among junior residents (95%) and lowest among LTs and OTAs (50%). Among the 80 junior residents, 76 (95%) were vaccinated, and 4 (5%) were NV. Among the 123 nursing staff, 89 (72.3%) were vaccinated, and 34 (27.7%) were CV, 9 (50%) were NV and 3 were in category of IV. Among the 18 LTs, 6 (33.3%) were CV, and 9 (50%) were NV. None of the 12 OTAs were CV, with 6 (50%) being NV. Conclusion: HCWs are at a potential risk of contracting HBV infection as an occupational hazard. There is need to strengthen efforts towards vaccination and prevention of HBV infection.

Needle-Stick and Sharp Injuries among Hospital Healthcare Workers in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Survey.

Needle-stick or sharp injuries (NSIs) are critical occupational hazards for healthcare workers. Exposure to blood and body fluids through NSIs increases the risk of transmission of blood-borne pathogens among them. The objectives of this study were to estimate the annual incidence of NSIs and investigate the associated factors of NSIs among the healthcare workers in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between October and November 2021. A total of 361 healthcare workers participated in the survey from all over Saudi Arabia. The one-year incidence of at least one event of NSIs among the healthcare workers is estimated at 22.2% (95% CI: 18.0, 26.8). More than half of the injury events (53.8%) were not reported to the authority by the healthcare workers. Incidence of NSIs was highest among the physicians (36%) and was followed by nurses (34.8%), dentists (29.2%), and medical technologists (21.1%). The odds of NSIs was higher among the healthcare workers aged 26–30 years compared to the 20–25 years age group (OR: 2.51; 95% CI: 1.04, 6.03), as well as among the workers who directly dealt with needles or other sharp objects while working compared to those who did not (OR: 5.9; 95% CI: 2.69, 12.97). The high incidence and low rate of reporting of NSIs highlights the need of education and awareness raising programs targeting healthcare providers with higher risk of injury.

Hepatitis C Prevalence in Patients Attending a Free Cataract Surgery Camp in Paharpur DI Khan

Hepatitis C is a major public health concern in developing countries. Early research has shown that the prevalence of HCV is extremely high. This has raised questions regarding how preventive measures will be distributed and implemented in the future on a larger scale. The goal of this study was to investigate the prevalence of Hepatitis C in people who were getting cataract surgery at a free eye camp as a potential occupational hazard for healthcare workers. Taking place from the 15th to the 18th of October 2021 in the city of Paharpur, DI Khan, a free eye camp was hosted at the Welfare Hospital. In the study, all the patients who were scheduled for cataract surgery were included. For the screening of these patients for antibodies to Hepatitis C, the Kit Method was utilised. All the information was recorded using a methodical proforma that was followed. The data was analysed to estimate the average age, gender distribution, and prevalence of Hepatitis C in the population. A total of 106 patients scheduled for cataract surgery were tested for hepatitis C. The results were negative. A total of 36 (34 percent) of the patients tested positive for Hepatitis C, with the average age being 61 years old. A basic infection control protocol must be always maintained, even if free eye camps are a fantastic activity for restoring sight to the visually impaired. The development and implementation of legal protocols for these camps should be the responsibility of the government. In addition to posing a concern for the public, this also poses a threat to health-care workers.

Global, regional and national incidence and causes of needlestick injuries: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Needlestick injuries (NSIs) are one of the most serious occupational hazards for healthcare workers (HCWs). The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence and causes of NSIs globally. A systematic review and meta-analysis of data from January 2000 to May 2020 collected from Scopus, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to assess the quality of the included articles. The data obtained were analysed by R version 3/5/0, and 113 articles were retrieved. There were 113 studies with a total of 525 798 HCWs. The incidence of NSIs was 43%. Africa had the highest rate of these injuries of 51%, and the World Health Organization (WHO) African Region had the highest incidence among WHO regions of 52%. Women were more frequently affected by NSIs than men. Hepatitis C virus infection was the disease most commonly transmitted via NSIs (21%). The highest rates of NSIs according to causes, devices, hospital locations, occupations and procedures were for recapping of needles, needles, general wards, nurses and waste disposal, respectively. The incidence of NSIs is gradually decreasing. The findings of this study can contribute to improving the decision-making process for reducing NSIs in HCWs.

Workplace Violence against Healthcare Workers in Health Services Organizations

Abstract The healthcare environment is one of the most complex and dangerous occupational hazards for healthcare workers, especially nurses. The complexity of a culture of patient-related violence and the nature of their jobs place healthcare workers at risk for violence on the job. Workplace violence is a profoundly serious issue and continues to be a growing problem in the United States. This paper is a brief literature review of workplace violence against healthcare workers in health services organizations. These sections will be discussed (a) common workplaces where violence occurs; (b)types of workplace violence; (c)workplace violence against healthcare workers in health services organizations displayed in a conceptual model; (d) mental health and physiological problems of workplace violence on healthcare workers; (e) cost of workplace violence in health services organizations; and (e) strategies for prevention. Healthcare administrators are obligated to provide a safe environment for patients and staff. However, numerous guidelines have been developed, workplace violence continues to be at an increased rate. Continuous research studies are needed to improve the safety of healthcare workers in their diverse work settings. Also, more research is needed in healthcare settings with limited research.

Prevalence of positive TST among healthcare workers in high-burden TB setting in Peru

BackgroundTuberculosis (TB) transmission has long been recognized as an important occupational hazard for healthcare workers (HCWs). HCWs have a 5.8% annual risk of exposure and three times greater risk of developing active TB than the general population.MethodsWe conducted an observational cross-sectional study between September 2014 and March 2015 among HCWs in a high-burden TB setting in Lima to estimate the prevalence of positive Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) and to investigate factors associated with a positive TST.ResultsTwo hundred forty participants were included in the analysis; TST was administered to 190 (79.2%) while the rest were exempt due to a previous positive TST result, history of TB, or test refusal. A positive TST result was found among 56.2% of participants to whom the TST was applied (95% CI: 49.22–63.55%). When considering those who had a previous positive TST result and those with a history of TB, the prevalence of a positive TST result was 64.3% (95% CI: 57.8–70.3%). No significant differences were observed between clinical/paramedical and administrative staff in the health center. The use of N95 masks during work hours was reported by 142 (69.9%) participants. Prevalence ratios (PR) show that workers with more than 120 months as a HCW were 1.44 times more likely to be TST positive. The multivariate analysis found that HCWs with over 10 years of service were 1.52 times more likely to be TST positive.ConclusionThis study supports previous reports that TB infection is an occupational hazard for HCWs. Prevention of TB transmission through control measures, as well as timely diagnosis of LTBI in this particular high-risk group, is critical for individual and public health.

Impact of safety-engineered devices (SEDs) on the prevention of percutaneous injuries

Abstract Background Needlestick injuries represent a major occupational hazard for healthcare workers as they lead to exposure to biological fluids, with higher risk of bloodborne pathogen infections. In order to minimise this risk, safety-engineered devices (SEDs) have been developed and introduced into the daily hospital practice. An annual survey, conducted by the Department of Public Health Sciences of the University of Turin since 1999, has been evaluating the number of percutaneous accidents in the hospitals of Piedmont (Italy), assessing also the impact of the introduction of SEDs on the injury incidence rate. The aim of this study is therefore to evaluate the efficacy of SEDs in preventing needlestick injuries. Methods Data about percutaneous injuries and needle consumption were obtained from 42 hospitals of Piedmont for the years 2014-2017, concerning all the types of needles and sharps most commonly used in the departments. After considering the overall trend of percutaneous events, standardised rates for 100000 needles were computed for both SEDs and conventional devices. The same analysis was performed considering all sharps except standard needles, which are mainly used for procedures not involving contact with patients (e.g. drug dilution). Results The comparison between the incidence rates with SEDs and conventional devices showed a slightly protective effect of SEDs in 2014, 2016 and 2017, with an incidence rate ratio ranging from 0.78 to 0.97. However, by removing the confounding effect of standard needles, the analysis yielded strong statistical evidence of the protective effect of SEDs for all years (RR = 0.28-0.63). Moreover, the total number of percutaneous events shows a trend of general decrease. Conclusions Safety devices have proved to be significantly effective in the prevention of needlestick injuries, and their introduction into the daily practice is one of the factors who could contribute to a reduction of percutaneous events. Key messages Safety-engineered devices are a very important tool in the prevention of injuries in healthcare workers, and their introduction into hospital practice has reduced the number of percutaneous injuries. Safety-engineered devices are significantly protective against percutaneous injuries compared to conventional ones, especially for procedures involving contact with patients (therefore at high risk).

Needle Stick Injuries among health care workers in a tertiary care hospital in District Bathinda, Punjab

Background: Because of the environment in which health care staff works, many they are at an increased risk of accidental needle stick injuries (NSI). NSI has been recognized as one of the potential occupational hazards for healthcare workers which results in transmission of blood borne pathogens such as HBV, HCV, and HIV/AIDS while performing their clinical activities in the Hospital. Aims &amp; Objectives: To study the prevalence of needle stick injuries and knowledge and behavior of health care workers in a tertiary care centre. Material and Methods: A Hospital based cross sectional study was conducted among Health Care workers at a tertiary care hospital in 2016 at District Bathinda, Punjab. Results: A total of two hundred and eight (208) participants took part in the study from various departments. 58 health workers out of 208 i.e. 27% had NSI in the last 12 months. 84.1% of the health care workers were aware of the fact that HIV could transmitted by needle-stick injuries. While 55.8% and 83.2% knew that HBV and HCV respectively be transmitted through NSI. Only 46.6% of the health workers remembered that they had ever received HBV vaccination. Conclusions: The survey found out that the knowledge regarding the risk associated with NSI and use of preventive measures was adequate among the heath care workers but still there was a slight room for improvement in their attitude and practice and the same can be addressed through proper education and training

Workplace violence injury in 106 US hospitals participating in the Occupational Health Safety Network (OHSN), 2012-2015.

Workplace violence is a substantial occupational hazard for healthcare workers in the United States. We analyzed workplace violence injury surveillance data submitted by hospitals participating in the Occupational Health Safety Network (OHSN) from 2012 to 2015. Data were frequently missing for several important variables. Nursing assistants (14.89, 95%CI 10.12-21.91) and nurses (8.05, 95%CI 6.14-10.55) had the highest crude workplace violence injury rates per 1000 full-time equivalent (FTE) workers. Nursing assistants' (IRR 2.82, 95%CI 2.36-3.36) and nurses' (IRR 1.70, 95%CI 1.45-1.99) adjusted workplace violence injury rates were significantly higher than those of non-patient care personnel. On average, the overall rate of workplace violence injury among OHSN-participating hospitals increased by 23% annually during the study period. Improved data collection is needed for OHSN to realize its full potential. Workplace violence is a serious, increasingly common problem in OHSN-participating hospitals. Nursing assistants and nurses have the highest injury risk.

Hepatitis B vaccination coverage and the determinants of vaccination among health care workers in selected health facilities in Lusaka district, Zambia: an exploratory study

BackgroundHepatitis B is a viral infection of the liver and causes both acute and chronic disease. It is transmitted through contact with an infected person’s bodily fluids. It is an occupational hazard for healthcare workers and can be prevented by the administration of a vaccine. It is recommended that healthcare workers be vaccinated against vaccine preventable diseases including hepatitis B. The study objective was to determine the prevalence and determinants of hepatitis B vaccination among healthcare workers in selected health facilities in Lusaka.MethodsThe study took place in seven health facilities across Lusaka district in Zambia. A total sample size of 331 healthcare workers was selected of which; 90 were nurses, 88 were doctors, 86 were laboratory personnel and 67 were general workers. A self-administered structured questionnaire was given to a total of 331 healthcare workers. Investigator led stepwise approach was used to select the best predictor variables in a multiple logistic regression model and all analyses were performed using STATA software, version 12.1 SE (Stata Corporation, College Station, TX, USA).ResultsOnly 64(19.3%) of the healthcare workers were vaccinated against hepatitis B, with 35 (54.7%) of these being fully vaccinated and 29 (45.3%) partially vaccinated. Analysis showed that; age of the healthcare worker, sharp injuries per year and training in infection control were the variables that were statistically significant in predicting a healthcare worker’s vaccination status.ConclusionIt is reassuring to learn that healthcare workers have knowledge regarding hepatitis B and the vaccine and are willing to be vaccinated against it. Health institutions should bear the cost for vaccinating staff and efforts should be made for appropriate health education regarding hepatitis B infection and its prevention. Establishment of policies on compulsory hepatitis B vaccination for healthcare workers in Zambia is recommended.

Occupational Risk Factors for Tuberculosis Among Healthcare Workers in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Tuberculosis is a known occupational hazard for healthcare workers (HCWs), especially in countries with a high burden of tuberculosis. It is estimated that HCWs have a 2- to 3-fold increased risk of developing tuberculosis compared with the general population. The objective of this study was to identify occupational risk factors for tuberculosis among HCWs in 3 district hospitals with specialized multidrug-resistant tuberculosis wards in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. We conducted a case-control study of HCWs diagnosed with tuberculosis between January 2006 and December 2010. Cases and controls were asked to complete a self-administered questionnaire regarding potential risk factors for tuberculosis. Of 307 subjects selected, 145 (47%) HCWs responded to the questionnaire; 54 (37%) tuberculosis cases and 91 (63%) controls. Cases occurred more frequently among clinical staff 46% (n = 25) and support staff 35% (n = 19). Thirty-two (26% [32/125]) HCWs were known to be infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), including 45% (21/54) of cases. HCWs living with HIV (odds ratio [OR], 6.35; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.54-11.37) and those who spent time working in areas with patients (OR, 2.24; 95% CI, 1.40-3.59) had significantly greater odds of developing tuberculosis, controlling for occupation, number of wards worked in, and household crowding. HIV was the major independent risk factor for tuberculosis among HCWs in this sample. These findings support the need for HCWs to know their HIV status, and for HIV-infected HCWs to be offered antiretroviral therapy and isoniazid preventive therapy. Infection prevention and control should also be improved to prevent transmission of tuberculosis in healthcare settings to protect both HCWs and patients.