MAGNITUDE AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS OF NEEDLE STICK INJURY AMONG HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS IN ST PAUL’S HOSPITAL MILLENNIUM MEDICAL COLLEGE

Abstract

Abstract Back ground Needle Stick Injuries results from accidental piercing of the skin and or mucocutaneous membranes of health profession. It can be caused from suturing needles and other sharps used during clinical care. It is an occupational hazard in health care sector. Needle stick injuries expose health care workers to blood and body fluids which may be infected and can be transmitted to them. Adequate knowledge and adherence to safety practices could prevent the occurrence of NSI and related consequences. Objective To assess the prevalence and determinants of needle stick injuries among health professionals in SPHMMC. Method A cross-sectional survey was used. The actual sample size for the study was determined using the formula for single population proportion making the sample size 280.P value of less than 0.05 was taken as significant. A Self-administered questioner was distributed among health care workers in SPHMMC. Result A total of 280 health care workers were participated in the study with a response rate of 100%. The prevalence of needle stick injury in our study was 108(38.6). Most of the professionals who sustained needle stick injury are nurses which were 53(40.8%).Among those who sustained needle stick injury 54(49.1%) were in the age group between 18-24 years. Males accounted for 58 (39.5%) while Females accounted for 50(37.9%) of needle stick injury cases. Among those who sustain needle stick injury majority worked at Maternity/Delivery 38(59.4%). Among people who sustained needle stick injury 39(36.1%) of them claim excess client as the contributing factor for needle stick injury. The study has identified that, Age, work area, service years, excess client, shortage of sharp box, shortage of gloves, removing of used needles, emergency situations and recapping of needles has association with sustaining needle stick injury.