Abstract
Needlestick injuries (NSIs) pose a significant occupational hazard for healthcare workers (HCWs), leading to potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens such as HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. This study assesses the prevalence, risk factors, and preventive measures of NSIs among health care workers in a selected health facility. A cross-sectional study design was employed, utilizing structured questionnaires with closed-ended questions. Factors such as frequency, cause, reporting practices and adherence to standard precautions were analyzed. From a total population of 448 (Doctors and Nurses) a sample of 258 participants was selected using Epinfo random sampling. Of these, 159 participants completed and returned the questionnaire. G*power was used to check if the sample size targeted will be sufficient for the inferential statistics conducted for this study by targeting a minimum sample size of 145.
The data was analysed using IBM-Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (IBM-SPSS) version 30.0 for Windows (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). The prevalence of NSIs among the HCWs in this study was 50.3%, and only 63.4% of the most recent incidents were reported. Of these NSI cases, 54.2% occurred during the day shift, and 43.7% occurred at night. Fingers were the most affected body part during the most recent NSIs. The findings revealed that 58.0% of NSIs occurred in the casualty ward, 13.0% in the theatre unit, and 12.3% in the intensive care unit. Syringe needles were the major NSIs contributors at 82.2%, while suture needles caused 24.6%, and intravenous cannulas caused 10.2%. The majority of the NSIs occurred during procedures (46.4%), while 44.3% occurred when recapping needles, and 19.3% were due to uncooperative patients. The findings revealed that 60.6% of HCWs took PEP medication after the NSI occurred, while 39.4% did not. NSIs were statistically significantly associated with the healthcare workers’ occupation, educational level and shift work. Needlestick injuries remain a prevalent occupational hazard in healthcare settings, requiring urgent intervention to mitigate risks. Regular training programs, proper disposal systems, and a safety culture among healthcare workers are critical in reducing NSI occurrences. The findings of this study have significant implications for occupational health policy and clinical practice in South Africa and similar settings