The Rate of Occupational Exposure to Patients’ Specimen among Personnel of Medical Diagnostic Laboratories in Birjand City

Abstract Background and Objective: Having knowledge about potential risks and the usage of safety equipment in laboratories can decrease the risk of occupational exposure. The aim of this study was to evaluate the predisposing factors for occupational exposure and to assess the usage of safety equipment among personnel of medical diagnostic laboratories in Birjand. Material and Methods: In this descriptive analytic study, all staff of laboratories was assessed by using a questionnaire including demographic data, type of accidental exposures and the use of protective equipment. Using SPSS software, we analyzed the data. Results: Of 110, 84 (76%) have at least one accidental exposure to patients’ specimens in that 55% of accidents are related to sample preparation step. In 82% of contacts, carelessness is the underlying cause of exposure. Gown, glove, fume hood and mouth mask are routinely used by 97%, 48%, 34%, 1% of personnel, respectively. Nearly all of (97%) personnel were vaccinated against hepatitis B and 78% of them have performed routine blood test for detecting any infections. Conclusion: The results of current study show that accidental exposures to patients’ samples are common among personnel of medical diagnostic laboratories. The level of preventive education and the rate of safety equipment usage are low therefore, we recommend planning of some training sessions to persuade the personnel for using safety equipment. Keywords: Medical laboratory, Occupational Exposure, Specimens, Vaccination