The prevalence and underreporting of needlestick injuries among hospital workers: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Objective Needlestick and sharps injuries (NSIs) are known occupational risks among health-care workers. Reporting these is important for early prevention management of blood-borne infections. We investigated the prevalence characteristics NSIs underreporting hospital workers (HWs) from different sectors. Methods A single-center cross-sectional study, involving an anonymous survey delivered to 2205 HWs. The included demographic information about worker training, reporting. Results Of 844 HWs respondents (40%), occurred in 443 them (53%); majority were needles (68%) at bedside (51%). Significantly higher prevalences (P < 0.001) noted physicians (75%) their 40s (61%) emergency surgical departments (66% 55%, respectively). reported 28% who did not directly use needles. Underreporting was found 46%, with a significant decrease report rate as number increased 0.001). significantly more common (59%), especially seniors (72%), without training older age groups (56% above 51 years, P = 0.003) males (54%, 0.01). highest occurring operating room lowest witnessed while passing needle (82% vs. 31%, Conclusions all sectors, including those do Improving preventive measures reporting should be encouraged. recommend reducing procedures possible assigning two risk injuries, increase rate.