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Abstract Background Healthcare workers are at risk of occupational exposure to blood and other body fluids after sustaining needlestick injury which constitutes a risk for transmission of blood-borne pathogens such as Hepatitis B virus, Hepatitis C virus or Human Immune-deficiency Virus. Objectives To assess the prevalence, response, and associated factors of needlestick injury by medical sharps among healthcare workers in Orotta National Referral Hospital, Asmara, Eritrea. Methods Cross sectional study was conducted between September and December 2017 among healthcare workers. This was a census study whereby a total of 383 healthcare workers who had contact with sharp medical equipment were taken as study population. An aided self-administered questionnaire, checklist and key informant interviews were used as data collection tools. Analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 22. Bivariate and binary logistic regression analyses were carried out and the level of significance was set at P 40 years (AOR = .314, p = .05), marital status (married (AOR = 0.595, p = .05)), additional duty that made healthcare workers rush during working hours (AOR = 2.134, p = .002) and back bone problem (AOR = 2.239, p = .002). Conclusion The overall finding of the study indicated that there was a great risk of contracting blood-borne infections among the healthcare workers especially midwives. Therefore, there is need for adequate supply of safety engineered devices, Hepatitis B vaccine, better reporting, and surveillance of needlestick injury cases at the hospital. Moreover, further research on assessment of the knowledge, attitude, and practice of healthcare workers toward occupational safety and health, particularly needlestick injury, is necessary.

Background: Needlestick and sharp object injuries affect healthcare workers. However, there are limitations in the evidence available for informed decisionmaking by stakeholders, as individual research shows inconsistent results. Therefore, this study aims to assess the pooled prevalence of needlestick and sharp object injuries and their associated factors. Methods: MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and other databases were searched from 5 September 2023 to 10 October 2023 using the following search terms: "Prevalence" OR "Burden" OR "Magnitude" AND "Associated factors" OR "related factors" OR "Risk factors" OR "determinants" OR "Predictors" AND "Needle stick Injury" OR "Sharp Injury" OR "Health care Workers" OR "Health Care Personnel" OR "Nurses" OR "Professional" AND "Ethiopia". Results: The pooled prevalence of needle sticks and sharp objects injury was 40.5 (95% CI: 35.0, 45.9). Needle-stick (AOR, 2.3; 95% CI: 1.6, 3.3, P < 0.001], absence of routine precaution [AOR, 2.3; 95% CI: 1.1, 4.5, P < 0.01] and lack of training (AOR = 2.4; 95% CI: 1.4, 4.1, p < 0.001) had increased odds of needlesticks and sharp objects injury. Conclusion: Forty percent of healthcare workers in Ethiopia have experienced needlestick and sharp object injuries. The identified factors included recapping, absence of routine precautions, and lack of training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Risky exposure of healthcare workers to blood and body fluids is one of the most critical global issues. This study aimed to determine the frequency, conditions, and interventions of risky contacts and provide guidance on infection control measures to enhance occupational safety. Methods: Healthcare workers' risky contact with blood and body fluids was investigated from January 2013 to December 2022. The contact tracking forms for blood and body fluid exposures in the Infection Control Committee (ICC) were retrospectively examined. Furthermore, the effects of the regulatory activities implemented by the ICC on the problems detected during the active surveillance of risky contacts and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic during the monitoring process were evaluated. Results: During the ten-year follow-up period, a total of 700 risky contacts were identified in 625 healthcare workers, with 643 (91.9%) resulting from needlestick and sharp injuries and 57 (8.1%) from skin and mucosal contact. Of the risky contacts, 262 (37.4%) occurred in internal medicine units, 171 (24.4%) in surgical units, and 112 (16%) in the emergency department, making these the most common locations for risky contacts. The most frequently reported occupational groups were, respectively, 267 (38%) interns, 185 (26%) nurses, and 173 (25%) cleaning staff. When evaluating how risky contacts occurred, it was determined that 215 (30.7%) occurred during invasive procedures, 108 (15.4%) while recapping the needle, and 528 (75%) resulted from needlestick injuries. It was determined that 13% of risky contacts applied to the ICC after 72 hours, and 79% used appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). The highest rate of PPE usage, at 93%, was observed in 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic began. In 2013, it was observed that the most common risky contacts occurred during waste collection, and over the years, injuries during waste collection decreased with training. Although the source was unknown in 32% of risky contacts, a decrease in the rate of risky contacts with unknown sources was achieved over time. Out of 478 risky contacts with known sources, 71 (14.9%) occurred with patients infected with hepatitis B, 35 (7.3%) with hepatitis C, and seven (1.5%) with HIV. Ninety-six per cent of the nurses were exposed to risky contacts, 93% of interns, 87% of doctors, 56% of cleaning personnel, and 84% of other healthcare workers were immune to hepatitis B. After a one-year follow-up period with post-exposure prophylaxis, no healthcare worker developed hepatitis B or HIV infection, while one person was found to be anti-HCV positive. Conclusion: Needlestick-sharp object injuries remain a significant issue. All healthcare institutions must regularly monitor risky contacts with blood and bodily fluids, identify problems, develop targeted infection control measures, and plan periodic training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite a recent Cochrane Review demonstrating blunt suture needles are safer for surgeons, the use of blunt suture needles has not become widely adopted. In the 'Implant Era', with the value of medical implant companies to surpass $145 billion by 2027, should we re-examine the use of blunt suture needles, especially to reduce infection in implant surgery? We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing whether blunt suture needles reduce risks to surgeons and patients. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed per PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Cochrane and EMBASE databases were searched for RCTs. Dichotomous variables were pooled as risk ratios (RR) and associated 95% confidence intervals (CI) using the MH method. Random or fixed effects modelling use was based on statistical heterogeneity (I2). 14 RCTs were identified with 2488 patients. The RCTs included laparotomies, caesarean sections, episiotomies, and orthopaedic surgeries. Blunt suture needles when compared with sharp needles resulted in a significant reduction in glove perforation; RR: 0.47, 95% CI [0.37 to 0.60] and needlestick injuries, RR: 0.50, 95% CI [0.26 to 0.97]. Sharp needles caused more wound infections, but the result was not statistically significant; RR: 2.73, 95% CI [0.54 to 13.76], p 0.22. Surgeon's satisfaction decreased with blunt needles compared with sharp (RR: 1.22, 95% CI [1.09 to 1.37]). Blunt suture needles are safer than sharp needles for surgeons and likely reduce risks to patients. This, however, comes at the cost of decreased ease of use. The authors recommend the routine use of blunt suture needles, especially in implant surgery. Blunt needles reduce glove perforation by 73% (95% CI: 53–85%). Blunt needles also reduce needlestick injury by 52%. Blunt needles are safer for surgeons and reduce the risk of infectious disease. The ease of handling of blunt needles, however, is worse than sharp needles. The authors recommend blunt needle use, especially in implant surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundNeedlestick and sharp object injuries affect healthcare workers. However, there are limitations in the evidence available for informed decision-making by stakeholders, as individual research shows inconsistent results. Therefore, this study aims to assess the pooled prevalence of needlestick and sharp object injuries and their associated factors.MethodsMEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and other databases were searched from 5 September 2023 to 10 October 2023 using the following search terms: “Prevalence” OR “Burden” OR “Magnitude” AND “Associated factors” OR “related factors” OR “Risk factors” OR “determinants” OR “Predictors” AND “Needle stick Injury” OR “Sharp Injury” OR “Health care Workers” OR “ Health Care Personnel” OR “Nurses” OR “Professional” AND “Ethiopia”.ResultsThe pooled prevalence of needle sticks and sharp objects injury was 40.5 (95% CI: 35.0, 45.9). Needle-stick (AOR, 2.3; 95% CI: 1.6, 3.3, P

Nuclear medicine healthcare workers are exposed to the risk of radioactive needlestick injury. To quantify the severity of this risk, the activity deposited into the skin and the injury depth have been experimentally measured for input into skin dosimetry program VARSKIN+. Agar test objects were pierced by hand with a needle containing Tc-99m Hydroxymethylene Diphosphonate (HMDP). The deposited activity was measured by contamination monitor and converted into deposited volume. Injury depth was measured with a ruler by piercing the test objects with visible dye.The median volume deposited into test objects without gloves was 100 ± 50 nl (standard error) (interquartile range (IQR): 50–320 nl). Through one glove, this was reduced to 50 ± 20 nl (IQR: 30 - 140 nl), however, the difference was not significant (p > 0.1). The volume deposited through two gloves was highly variable due to the increased force required to puncture. The median injury depth was 4.0 ± 0.4 mm (standard error).Decontamination efficacy was investigated by rinsing alone, with hand soap and by application of decontamination agent RadiacWash. All decontamination methods were found to significantly decrease the activity deposited (p < 0.001). Test objects rinsed for 60 s had a mean reduction of 42 % ± 6 % (95 % confidence interval). There was no significant difference observed between decontamination methods. This may be due to differences in absorption time between the sample groups.Skin dose estimates have been calculated in VARSKIN+ using the results of the experiment. For injuries without gloves, involving 1011 MBq/ml of Tc-99m HMDP, a skin dose of 11 ± 5 mSv (propagated standard error) was calculated. Immediate decontamination under running water is recommended to reduce the dose. Further research is encouraged to investigate the protection offered by gloves.

Background: Even when education and the use of safety equipment are emphasized, nurses frequently experience needlestick injuries. Understanding the risk situations and coping mechanisms for needlestick injuries experienced by nurses facilitates their prevention. Objectives: We aimed to explore and describe the phenomenon of needlestick injuries through the research questions: (1) What causes nurses to suffer from needlestick injuries? (2) How to cope after a needlestick injury? and (3) What are the recommendations for needlestick injury prevention? Methods: This qualitative descriptive study involved focus group interviews with 31 direct care nurses in 6 groups who had experienced needlestick injuries while working in different acute care hospitals across 3 regions in South Korea. Data were collected from January 29 to March 29, 2022, and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: The average age of the participating nurses was 29.7 years. The following 3 themes were identified: various needlestick injury experiences, post-needlestick injury coping, and expectations regarding needlestick injuries. Conclusions: Risk situations and coping mechanisms of nurses who experienced needlestick injuries were diverse. Emergency situations and novice nurses were the causes of most of the needlestick injuries. Often, personal protective equipment was found cumbersome. Reporting needlestick injuries depended on the work environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Local anaesthesia is considered essential knowledge within the dental profession as it helps to address pain management. Operator percutaneous needlestick injuries associated with the delivery of dental anaesthesia are common for dental healthcare providers. The study proposes a supplemental technique to reduce self‐inducing novice operator needlestick injury to complement existing pedagogies for the preclinical local anaesthesia curriculum. The purpose of the study is to evaluate whether a local anaesthesia behavioural video can navigate students to safer clinical practice. Further, a supplemental technique is proposed in whether assessing instrument retraction technique in clinical patient care leads to decreased self‐inducing intraoral needle stick injury for novice predoctoral dental operator. Materials and Methods: Beginning in 2011, predoctoral dental students were asked to view a "what not to do" video within a summative assessment and identify at least five behaviours that were unacceptable errors for delivering local anaesthesia. Operator intraoral needlestick injury was also tracked per the bloodborne exposure reports within predoctoral patient clinics. Results: Data from the learners' responses identified progression in recognising unacceptable errors from behavioural video. Intraoral needlestick injury, 8 and 9 years prior and after the introduction of video showed significance with a low correlation coefficient. Conclusion: More data need to be gathered and evaluated in other dental school settings to determine whether this supplemental educational video decreases needlestick injury in novice operators. Results suggest this behavioural video may guide novice operators to overall safer clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Needlestick injury, which occurs when the skin is accidentally punctured, is linked to infection transmission of HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. Because of the associated risks, hospitals are keen to do everything necessary to prevent needlestick injuries to their staff. This is a quality improvement project aimed at reducing needlestick injuries among staff at Nyaho Medical Centre (NMC). Methods: A facility-based assessment of the incidence of needlestick injury recorded and quality intervention employed was conducted between 2018 and 2021. Quality improvement tools such as the fishbone (cause and effect analysis) and the run chart were used to analyze and evaluate improvements made over time. Results: NMC staff have greatly reduced the incidence of needlestick injuries from 2018 to 2021 (from 11 needlestick injuries in 2018 to 3 recorded needlestick injuries in 2021). Conclusion: Using root cause analysis to investigate the possible cause of needlestick injury and use of the run chart to monitor the implemented improvement strategies (interventions) helped reduce the incidence of needlestick injuries among staff and thereby improved staff safety. The introduction of the incident reporting management systems saw an increase in the culture of incident reporting in general. Other incidents, such as medical errors and patient falls, were being reported using the incident reporting system. The inclusion of infection prevention and control training as part of NMC's onboarding for new employees helped in the knowledge and awareness creation of needlestick injuries and safety measures to prevent injury from needles and sharps. Policy changes and audit with feedback sharing key performance indicators with frontline team members were identified to have had the most effect.

Blood-borne pathogens (BBPs) are infectious microorganisms that are found in human blood and can cause diseases in humans. Health care workers such as physicians, surgeons, nurses, dentists, dental students, dental assistants, laboratory technicians, personnel handling infectious waste, and other health care employees are at increased risk of exposure to these pathogens. Percutaneous injuries from needles or other sharp objects are the major sources of BBPs in the workplace. Needlestick injuries (NSIs) have the most potential to transmit and have the easiest mode of transmission of BBPs. The authors searched electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus, Embase, MEDLINE-Ovid) for studies and articles focused on the various aspects of NSIs, their possible causes, prevention, and management protocols. There is a lack of literature on the global prevalence of NSIs among dental practitioners and underreporting of NSIs by clinicians. The authors also found that dental students and inexperienced practitioners were the most vulnerable. They found apparent inconsistencies in guidelines and recommendations from various regulatory and statutory agencies in charge of limiting and managing NSIs. The most significant occupational risks for health care workers globally are NSIs. Dentists are recognized as one of the high-risk groups for exposure to NSIs. Although the reporting rate was noticeably low, the frequency of NSIs among dental students was alarmingly high. Appropriate and succinct training of dental health care workers is crucial for prevention and management of NSIs. It is recommended that dentists familiarize themselves with recommendations from such agencies and organizations as the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and American Dental Association. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Dental interns are vulnerable to needlestick injuries (NSI). The objectives of this study were to examine the prevalence and characteristics of NSI exposures among dental interns during their first-year clinical training, assess risk factors, and evaluate reporting behaviours. Methods An online survey was conducted among dental interns of Class 2011–2017 at Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology (PKUSS), China. The self-administrated questionnaire consisted of information on demographic profiles, NSI characteristics, and reporting practices. The outcomes were presented by descriptive statistics. A multivariate regression analysis was performed to assess NSI sources using a forward step-wise approach. Results A total of 407 dental interns completed the survey (response rate 91.9%, 407/443), and 23.8% sustained at least one NSI. The mean number of NSIs per intern was 0.28 during the first clinical year. More occupation exposures occurred from October to December, between 13:00–15:00. Syringe needles were the most frequent sources, followed by dental burs, suture needles, and ultrasonic chips. The risk of peer-inflicted NSIs in the department of Paediatric Dentistry was 12.1 times higher than that in Oral Surgery (OR 12.1, 95% CI: 1.4-101.4). Appropriately 64.9% NSIs occurred when chairside assistants were absent. Compared to working alone, the risk of peer-inflicted NSIs was 32.3 times higher when providing chairside assistance (OR 32.3, 95% CI: 7.2-145.4). The left-hand index finger was the most commonly injured site. About 71.4% of exposures were reported in paperwork. Conclusions Dental interns are susceptible to NSIs during their first-year clinical training. Extra attention should be paid to syringe needles, dental burs, suture needles, and ultrasonic chips. The lack of chairside assistance is hazardous regarding NSIs. The training of chairside assistance of the first-year dental interns should be enhanced. First-year dental interns are required to increase their awareness of ignored behaviors related to NSI exposures.

Objective: To investigate and characterize the incidence of needlestick injuries (NSI) in a sample of practicing pain medicine physicians, with the ultimate goal of aiding to prevent these injuries by raising awareness of their prevalence. Design: A cross‐sectional research survey. Setting: A REDCap survey was emailed to physicians who had membership to the American Academy of Pain Medicine. Subjects: Eligibility criteria included physicians who were actively practicing and identified as pain physicians who participated in procedures with needlesticks or sharps. Methods: Basic demographics without identifiers were collected, including practice setting, years in practice, and training type. Respondents were asked to estimate the number of sharps‐involved procedure days per week and per day. They were then asked to estimate the number of NSIs they sustained since completing training and in the past year. Results: A total of 430 surveys were opened by email by potential participants, of which 124 responded (response rate 29%). Data from a total of 109 respondents that met inclusion criteria were included. Roughly 60% of respondents reported at least one NSI since completing training and approximately one‐third had sustained more than three NSIs. In the last year, roughly 19% of providers reported at least one needlestick injury. The number of NSIs reported by providers since completing training was not significantly associated with practice setting, the number of procedure days per week, or the number of sharps‐involved procedures per day. There was a significant relationship between years post‐training and number of NSIs since completing training, with providers with more years post‐training reporting higher incidences of NSIs (p < 0.0005). The number of NSIs since completing training and the number of NSIs were also associated, with providers that had sustained a greater number of total NSIs reporting a higher incidence of NSIs within the last year (p < 0.0005). Conclusions: This study characterizes NSIs in a population of pain medicine physicians. These data warrant caution and will hopefully raise awareness amongst providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a case of monkeypox in a physician after an occupational needlestick injury from a pustule. This case highlights risk for occupational transmission and manifestations of the disease after percutaneous transmission: a short incubation period, followed by a solitary lesion at the injured site and later by systemic symptoms.

Background: Dental interns are vulnerable to needlestick injuries (NSI). The objectives of this study were to examine the prevalence and characteristics of NSI exposures among dental interns during their first-year clinical training, assess risk factors, and evaluate reporting behaviours. Methods: An online survey was conducted among dental interns of Class 2011–2017 at Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology (PKUSS), China. The self-administrated questionnaire consisted of information on demographic profiles, NSI characteristics, and reporting practices. The outcomes were presented by descriptive statistics. A multivariate regression analysis was performed to assess NSI sources using a forward step-wise approach. Results: A total of 407 dental interns completed the survey (response rate 91.9%, 407/443), and 23.8% sustained at least one NSI. The mean number of NSIs per intern was 0.28 during the first clinical year. More occupation exposures occurred from October to December, between 13:00–15:00. Syringe needles were the most frequent sources, followed by dental burs, suture needles, and ultrasonic chips. The risk of peer-inflicted NSIs in the department of Paediatric Dentistry was 12.1 times higher than that in Oral Surgery (OR 12.1, 95% CI: 1.4-101.4). Appropriately 64.9% NSIs occurred when chairside assistants were absent. Compared to working alone, the risk of peer-inflicted NSIs was 32.3 times higher when providing chairside assistance (OR 32.3, 95% CI: 7.2-145.4). The left-hand index finger was the most commonly injured site. About 71.4% of exposures were reported in paperwork. Conclusions: Dental interns are susceptible to NSIs during their first-year clinical training. Extra attention should be paid to syringe needles, dental burs, suture needles, and ultrasonic chips. The lack of chairside assistance is hazardous regarding NSIs. The training of chairside assistance of the first-year dental interns should be enhanced. First-year dental interns are required to increase their awareness of ignored behaviors related to NSI exposures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aims to evaluate occupational injuries in healthcare professionals exposed to the blood and body fluids of patients in our hospital for five years. Methods: A retrospective analysis of applications of healthcare professionals to the Infection Control Committee (ICC) between 2013-2017 was conducted based on the "registry and follow-up form for exposure to body fluids." Results:175 personnel applied to the ICC, and the average age of applicants was 31.5±8. 58.5% of the cases were male, and 41.5% were female. Nurses constituted the majority of applicants at 37.7%, followed by caregivers at 21.7% and interns at 17.1%. Most injuries were inflicted in operating rooms 22.3%, emergency services 18.8%, intensive care units 18.3% and surgical clinics 12.6%. 62.5% of the cases were needlestick injuries, 24.0% were due to sharps, and 13.5% were due to mucosal exposure. The source patient was identified in 144 cases (82%), whereas in 31 cases (%18), the source patient could not be identified. Sixteen of the source patients were HBsAg positive, five were anti-HCV positive, and one was anti-HIV positive. None of the personnel was infected due to the injuries. Conclusion: The number of sharp injuries can be reduced by employing more personnel, reducing work hours, and encouraging the use of personal protective equipment. In addition to providing fundamental medical knowledge, training programs should also encourage a positive attitude toward HIV / AIDS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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We report a case of monkeypox in a physician after an occupational needlestick injury from a pustule. This case highlights risk for occupational transmission and manifestations of the disease after percutaneous transmission: a short incubation period, followed by a solitary lesion at the injured site and later by systemic symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Medical & Pharmaceutical Sciences is the property of Arab Journal of Sciences & Research Publishing (AJSRP) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Dental students are vulnerable to needlestick injuries (NSIs) due to their inadequate training. However, the global prevalence of NSI among dental students is unknown.Aim: To determine the pooled prevalence among dental students, epidemiological profile, and risk factors for NSI.Methods: A systematic review was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. The review protocol was registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD 42022312778). Eligible studies were identified from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, OVID, and EBSCO databases. A meta-analysis with a random effects model was performed to estimate the pooled prevalence, and meta-regression was conducted to explore heterogeneity among studies.Findings: A total of 25 studies from 15 countries met the inclusion criteria. The estimated pooled prevalence of NSI among dental students was 44% (95% confidence interval: 38-51%). Local anaesthesia, tooth cleaning or scaling, and waste disposal were associated with highest risk for NSI. Most studies observed under-reporting of NSI. Dental students had inadequate knowledge regarding post-exposure management.Conclusion: Dental students had a high prevalence and low reporting rate of NSI exposure. Inadequate knowledge might increase the probability of NSI exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to determine the occupational risks of cleaners of healthcare institutions like Tikur Anbassa Specialized Referral Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of cleaners focusing on occupational health and safety issues, including biological and chemical risks. Interview data were collected using a structured questionnaire that involved all the cleaners. Additionally, focus group discussions and use of observational checklists were applied to capture both administrative and the actual waste management aspects. The result of the study showed that all cleaners had a favorable attitude towards safety principles. However, the knowledge of cleaners on occupational safety was so poor to the level that all of them did not even know the meaning of nosocomial infection. Almost all of the cleaners, 69 (98.6%), had not taken any preemployment training by the time of the interview. All of the cleaners’ practices were not fully compliant with the universal precaution principles and the major proportion, 37 (53%), of them had instances of needlestick injuries ranging from one to four times. Furthermore, the wastes in the hospital were located indiscriminately and with an uncovered container. Though cleaners had a desirable attitude, the status of occupational safety awareness and practice were not to the expected level that it should be. This institution, and similar institutions, should give emphasis to occupational safety issues with healthcare waste management. Awareness training has to be given before employment as well as refreshment trainings after engagement.

Background/purpose: Dental students are particularly vulnerable for needlestick injuries (NSI). However, the epidemiology of NSI exposures among Chinese dental students was rarely reported. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of NSI among dental students in a major teaching institution of China, and to identify associated factors. Materials and methods: A self-administrated online questionnaire was developed based on previously published studies, and distributed to dental students of Class 2011–2015 recruited from Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology. Results: Two hundred and sixty-eight dental students including 38.8% of males and 61.2% of females (response rate of 90.0%) completed the survey. Approximately 36.2% of the respondents had sustained at least one NSI. A total of 112 NSI cases were reported. The majority of NSIs were related to the procedures of local anesthesia administration (15.2%) and tooth cleaning or scaling (15.2%). Syringe needles, dental burs and ultrasonic chips were the most notorious devices. Statistical analysis showed significant distribution in NSI occurrence between July–September and October–December. The main cause was lapse in concentration (67.9%), followed by fatigue (22.3%). Up to 66.1% of the exposures occurred when the student was working alone, while only 10.7% with assisting. Unfortunately, 26.8% of the incidents were under-reported. Conclusion: Dental students are prone to needlestick injuries. The present study clearly reveals a need for increased awareness of NSI prevention among dental students. The quality of infection control education at dental teaching institutions is crucial and indispensable for reducing NSI exposures.

Abstract Aim The study aimed to assess the incidence of needlestick and sharps injuries among healthcare workers (HCWs) in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia, as well as to determine whether there exists an association between hospital level and needlestick and sharps injuries rate. Design A cross‐sectional survey was conducted among 609 randomly selected HCWs from nine general hospitals. Methods A self‐administered questionnaire, which covered the structure and process of injection safety, was used for data collection. Results The overall needlestick and sharps injuries incidence rate was 24%. The needlestick and sharps injuries rates were 30% and 14% in secondary and tertiary hospitals, respectively. HCWs working in tertiary hospitals were 61% less likely to have needlestick and sharps injuries than those employed in secondary hospitals. This was mainly the impact of better and continuous training. High safety level maintenance and health education provision are vital in such settings.

Background: Although needle stick injuries (NSIs) are a very common preventable occupational hazard among healthcare workers (HCWs), their prevalence remains high. The study aimed to assess the prevalence of NSIs, and factors associated with NSIs among HCWs at a private hospital in northern Namibia. The HCWs included enrolled nurses, registered nurses, and doctors. Methods: An analytic cross-sectional study design was used for the study. 400 respondents were selected using a proportional stratified random sampling method. A self-administered questionnaire designed for the study was used for data collection. Statistical analysis employed Chi-square tests and logistic regression. Results: The 12 months prevalence rate of NSIs among HCWs was 37.5%, 95% CI (32.8% – 42.2%), while the career prevalence was 55.3%, 95% CI (50.4% – 60.2%). Most NSIs (30.3%) occurred in theatre, 40.3% were caused by syringe needles, 70.5% occurred on fingers, and 74.7% were of a prick nature. Chi-square tests showed an association between profession and NSIs and between work experience and NSIs (p

Needle stick injury is important problems in occupational safety in global health environment. In fact there are still occurrences of needle sticks that may be related to compliance. This study at to determine relationship between nurse adherence on injection procedure with needle sticks injury at IRNA 2 Bedah RSUD dr. Saiful Anwar Malang. Descriptive analytic cross sectional involving 39 respondents selected by purposive sampling technique. Data were collected with injection procedure observation sheet and needle injury observation sheet. Data analysis used correlation test with = 0.05. A total of 39 respondents, almost all of them 35 respondents or 89.7% had complied with Injection procedure and there was still one incident of needle stick injury in respondent. Statistical test results p value = 0.002 or p <0.05, there was a significant relationship between injection procedure and needle sticks injury at IRNA 2 Surgery RSUD Dr Saiful Anwar Malang. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dental health care workers, particularly dental medicine students (DMS), are at an increased risk of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The aim of our study was to assess the level of knowledge on HBV and HCV, estimate needlestick injury (NSI) prevalence and reporting practice in DMS at the University of Zagreb, and analyze how enrolment in obligatory and supplemental courses affects knowledge and NSI reporting practice. The knowledge was assessed by our questionnaires based on the Centers for Disease Control general handouts. Additional information was collected to examine the prevalence and reporting practice of NSI. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistical analysis, independent-samples t-test, proportion analyses, and combined factor analyses of categorical and quantitative variables in SPSS and R. In total, 206 students participated in the survey. The overall level of HBV- and HCV-related knowledge was poor, with the mean scores of 61.90% and 51.35%, respectively. Moreover, students enrolled in the first year demonstrated significantly lower levels of knowledge in comparison with their older peers. Of all participants, 18.2% had sustained a NSI and the majority of them (78.95%) had never reported the injury. In conclusion, DMS have low levels of knowledge on important occupational pathogens and poor NSI reporting practice. Moreover, formal education in the current form has failed to significantly improve student competence and theoretical knowledge translates poorly into more conscientious injury reporting practice. We should look for a better way to increase student awareness and level of knowledge on this topic.

Background: Percutaneous injuries from needlesticks are a major occupational hazard for nurses. Local Problem: Reducing subcutaneous insulin-related needlestick injuries was part of a nurse-led comprehensive sharps injury-reduction program at an integrated, not-for-profit health system. Methods: The incident rate of needlestick injuries was compared between 1 year before and 1 year after introducing this quality improvement project. Interventions: A system-wide educational program instituting changes in subcutaneous insulin administration practices was combined with supply chain standardization using a single type of safety-engineered insulin syringe. Results: The average monthly incidence of needlestick injuries per 10 000 subcutaneous insulin injections fell significantly from year to year (incidence rate ratio, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.30-0.80; Poisson regression P = .004). One-year cost savings for supplies totaled $3500; additional annual median savings were $24 875 (2019 US dollars) in estimated costs of needlestick injuries averted. Conclusions: The effectiveness of this multifaceted project provides a practical template to reduce subcutaneous insulin-related needlestick injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dental students are particularly vulnerable for needlestick injuries (NSI). However, the epidemiology of NSI exposures among Chinese dental students was rarely reported. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of NSI among dental students in a major teaching institution of China, and to identify associated factors. A self-administrated online questionnaire was developed based on previously published studies, and distributed to dental students of Class 2011–2015 recruited from Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology. Two hundred and sixty-eight dental students including 38.8% of males and 61.2% of females (response rate of 90.0%) completed the survey. Approximately 36.2% of the respondents had sustained at least one NSI. A total of 112 NSI cases were reported. The majority of NSIs were related to the procedures of local anesthesia administration (15.2%) and tooth cleaning or scaling (15.2%). Syringe needles, dental burs and ultrasonic chips were the most notorious devices. Statistical analysis showed significant distribution in NSI occurrence between July–September and October–December. The main cause was lapse in concentration (67.9%), followed by fatigue (22.3%). Up to 66.1% of the exposures occurred when the student was working alone, while only 10.7% with assisting. Unfortunately, 26.8% of the incidents were under-reported. Dental students are prone to needlestick injuries. The present study clearly reveals a need for increased awareness of NSI prevention among dental students. The quality of infection control education at dental teaching institutions is crucial and indispensable for reducing NSI exposures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The study aimed to assess the incidence of needlestick and sharps injuries among healthcare workers (HCWs) in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia, as well as to determine whether there exists an association between hospital level and needlestick and sharps injuries rate. Design: A cross‐sectional survey was conducted among 609 randomly selected HCWs from nine general hospitals. Methods: A self‐administered questionnaire, which covered the structure and process of injection safety, was used for data collection. Results: The overall needlestick and sharps injuries incidence rate was 24%. The needlestick and sharps injuries rates were 30% and 14% in secondary and tertiary hospitals, respectively. HCWs working in tertiary hospitals were 61% less likely to have needlestick and sharps injuries than those employed in secondary hospitals. This was mainly the impact of better and continuous training. High safety level maintenance and health education provision are vital in such settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Addisu Getie, Adam Wondmieneh, Getachew Tesfaw Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Woldia University, Woldia, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Addisu Getie Email addisugetie@gmail.comBackground: Health professionals are at high risk of exposure for needlestick or sharp injury due to repeated exposure in clinical areas. This exposure leads to the acquiring of different infectious diseases like human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and other infectious diseases. Nurses and midwives having repeated exposure due to long working time, not wearing personal protective equipment, less work experience, and who are unable to apply infection prevention utilization guidelines are at high risk of needlestick and sharp injuries.Methods: An institutional-based, cross-sectional study design was conducted in North Wollo Zone public hospitals. A simple random sampling technique was applied to select study subjects. The method of data collection was self-administered questionnaires that are structured and pretested from February to March 2019. The data were analyzed using both descriptive and analytical statistics. Binary logistic regressions were used to test the association between variables. Then, P-value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant in this study.Results: Of the 147 respondents who participated in the study, 50.3% were female and 49.7% were male. The prevalence of needlestick and the sharp injuries was 75.5%. Recap practice of needle (AOR: 3.880; 95%CI: 1.666– 9.036), working room (maternal care room) (AOR: 2.968; 95%CI: 1.012– 8.703), and contagious room like emergency room (AOR: 3.587; 95%CI: 1.383– 9.301) are significantly associated with needlestick and sharp injuries.Conclusion: This study showed that three-quarters of the study subjects were exposed to needlestick injury at least once in the past year. Needle recapping practice and working room were associated with needlestick and sharp injuries. Then, health personnel should avoid the practice of recapping a needle and tale care themself to avoid needle and sharp injuries in the workplace.Keywords: needlestick injury, sharp injury, North Wollo zone, nurse, midwives

Background: Needlestick and sharp injuries have been identified as the most dangerous factor among health-care workers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 385,000 health-care workers experience needlestick each year. Methods: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of needlestick injuries (NSIs) in Iranian health-care workers. In this review and meta-analysis, the local and international databases such as Scopus, Medline, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scientific Information Database (SID), and Magiran were searched using keywords including “prevalence” OR “needle” OR “needle stick” OR “Sharp injury” OR “Iranian personnel's” OR “Iranian health care workers” OR “Iranian hospitals” OR “Iran.” The original researches that determined the prevalence of NSIs among Iranian health-care workers and published from January 2005 to June 2019 were included in the current study. The pooled prevalence of NSIs was determined using a random-effects model with a 95% confidence interval. All analyses were performed using STATA version 11 (Stata Corporation, College Station, TX, USA). P < 0.05 was considered as a significant level. Results: The overall prevalence of NSIs among Iranian health-care personnel was about 50.8 (46.3–55.2). Furthermore, this prevalence in educational, noneducational, both noneducational and educational, and military centers was about 51.1 (46.5–57.7), 40.4.1 (34.2–46.6), 61.0 (32.1–89.9), and 41.5 (23.0–60.0), respectively. The prevalence of NSIs among the nurses was 51.1 (45.4–56.8), which was more than other groups. Conclusions: The prevalence of NSIs in Iranian hospitals was high. Since most of the injuries are caused by nurses, more intervention programs should be designed for nurses in these wards.

Context: Globally, the reporting on the incidents of needle stick injuries (NSI) is far below the actual, and in hospitals which depend on their normal reporting systems, this figure may be up to ten times lower. NSIs can serve as a source of life-threatening infections; therefore, an insight into various factors that lead to it, along with the knowledge regarding prophylactic measures is important. Aim: The study aimed to develop an understanding of the causes and probability of NSI and knowledge of prophylactic measures among health-care workers (HCWs). Settings and Design: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted. Subjects and Methods: A structured questionnaire was developed for the study. Statistical Analysis Used: IBM Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS), v22.0 was used. Results: A total of 255 HCW were recruited, which consisted of 129 doctors, 110 nurses, and 16 laboratory assistants. The results of the study found that 36.1% of the HCW suffered from NSI. Of the total reported needlestick injuries, the maximum was among the doctors and in the age group of 22--30 years. Only 35.9% had reported the incident. Injuries were mostly sustained to the fingers occurred during use in the morning shift. Majority of the HCW were aware of HBV transmissibility and were vaccinated against it. Although a substantial number (162) of HCW were aware to take post-exposure prophylaxis against HBV and HIV within 72 h, only 12% took prophylactic treatment against HIV. Conclusions: NSI prevention strategies should be strictly implemented at the workplace and followed during procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cutaneous tuberculosis secondary to skin inoculation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis is uncommon but it can occur in the health care settings. Herein, we report an unusual case of primary cutaneous tuberculosis of the thumb following a needlestick injury. The infection progressed with a necrotic granuloma, lymphatic dysfunction as visualized by near-infrared fluorescence lymphatic imaging, and the development of an axillary web syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of the present study was to assess the knowledge, awareness, and practice of dental undergraduate, interns, and postgraduate students toward postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) and needlestick injuries. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey was carried out among undergraduate, interns and postgraduate dental students in an institutional dental hospital in India. The students were required to fill a self-administered questionnaire with close ended questions with responses indicated by a simple tick box format. The questionnaire was divided into three sections intended to collect information on (1) sociodemographic characteristics, (2) knowledge, and (3) practice habits toward needlestick injury (NSI) and PEP of the respondents. Results: An adequate score (>70% correct response) to knowledge about NSI and PEP was obtained by 60.2% (50/83) of the respondents, while 47% (39/83) of the student participants obtained an adequate score (>70% score) to appropriate practice habits toward NSI and PEP. A high proportion (84.3%) of the student were vaccinated against Hepatitis B virus, but only 6% were aware of their serum antibody to HBsAg. 61.5% of the student reported experiencing NSI during clinical practice with 3.6% of the students taking PEP. The most common reason for not taking PEP was ignorance of PEP protocol (27.7%) and lack of support to report the incidence (18.1%). The postgraduate students scored better than the undergraduate students in both the knowledge and practice parameters, but the results were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Conclusion: This study shows that dental students' knowledge, practice, and awareness toward NSI and PEP is inadequate. The current classroom education must be supplemented with additional interventions to ingrain appropriate practice habits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Health-care workers (HCWs) can sustain needlestick injuries (NSIs) during patient care activities and are at a greater risk of exposure to blood-borne infectious agents such as HBV, HCV, and HIV, among which only HBV has an effective vaccine. Unfortunately, both the voluntary reporting rates of NSIs and HBV vaccination coverage among HCWs have been generally low. This study aims to analyze the trends of voluntary reporting of NSIs and the HBV vaccination status among the HCWs of our tertiary health care center. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted between January 2016 and July 2018 at a tertiary health care center in Puducherry. A standard pro forma was filled by all HCWs reporting NSIs. HIV, hepatitis B virus surface antigen, and hepatitis C virus were tested using rapid card tests, and anti-hepatitis B surface titers were tested using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay according to the manufacturer's instructions. RESULTS: A total of 83 incidents of NSIs were reported. Nursing staffs reported the maximum number of incidents followed by students. About 42 incidents of NSI were reported in the year 2018 compared to 26 and 15 incidents reported in 2017 and 2016, respectively. Only 37 HCWs had taken the complete course of HBV vaccine. CONCLUSION: This study shows an increase in the voluntary reporting of NSIs by the HCWs, but the HBV vaccination status among them was found to be low.

Abstract Background Health facilities can provide diagnostic, curative, and prognostic services for the community. While providing services, healthcare workers can be exposed to needlestick injuries that can transmit pathogenic organisms through body fluids. Objective The aim was to establish the pooled prevalence of needlestick injuries among healthcare workers in Ethiopia. Methods This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. Articles were searched from Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus databases using a combination of keywords and Boolean functions. All the searched articles were imported into the EndNote X9 software, and then, duplicate data files were removed. Article screening and data extraction were done independently by two authors. Data manipulation and analyses were done using STATA version 15.1 software. Results The analysis of 23 full-text articles showed that the prevalence of the 12-month and lifetime needlestick injuries among the primary studies ranged from 13.2 to 55.1% and 18.6 to 63.6%, respectively. The pooled prevalence of needlestick injuries among the Ethiopian healthcare workers was 28.8% (95% CI 23.0–34.5) and 43.6% (95% CI 35.3–52.0) for the 12 months and lifetime, respectively. Conclusions The pooled prevalence of needlestick injuries among Ethiopian healthcare workers was high. Therefore, efforts should be implemented to reduce the occurrence of injuries. Adequate protective equipment and safety-engineered devices should be supplied for the healthcare workers. It could be more effective to reduce the factors contributing to increased exposures through the allocation of adequate numbers of the healthcare workforce and implementing in-service training.

Abstract Background Needlestick accidents while handling of infectious material in research laboratories can lead to life-threatening infections in laboratory personnel. In laboratories working with the lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), the virus can be transmitted to humans through needlestick injury and lead to serious acute illness up to meningitis. Case presentation We report of a case of LCMV meningitis in a laboratory worker who sustained a penetrating needlestick injury with a LCMV-contaminated hollow needle whilst disposing of a used syringe into the sharps waste bin. Four days after needlestick injury the laboratory worker developed a systemic disease: 11 days after exposure, she was diagnosed with meningitis with clinical signs and symptoms of meningismus, photophobia, nausea and vomiting, requiring hospitalisation. The PCR was positive for LCMV from the blood sample. 18 days after exposure, seroconversion confirmed the diagnosis of LCMV-induced meningitis with an increase in specific LCMV-IgM antibodies to 1:10′240 (day 42: 1:20′480). Ten weeks after exposure, a follow-up titre for IgM returned negative, whereas IgG titre increased to 1:20′480. Conclusions This is the first case report of a PCR-documented LCMV meningitis, coupled with seroconversion, following needlestick injury. It highlights the importance of infection prevention practices that comprise particularly well established safety precaution protocols in research laboratories handling this pathogenic virus, because exposure to even a small amount of LCMV can lead to a severe, life-threatening infection.