An Evaluation of Health Personnel Exposed to Occupational Injuries in Terms of HBV, HCV, and HIV Infections

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to determine the rates, distribution and risk factors of needle-stick and sharps injuries that cause diseases spread through blood and body fluids, to discuss relevant precautions, and to monitor seroconversion conditions of viral hepatitis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in injured health personnel in our hospital. Materials and Methods: The data recorded by the Infection Control Committee about health personnel who were exposed to blood or body fluids as a result of needle-stick and sharps injuries between January 2018 and May 2020 were analyzed retrospectively. The results were presented as percentages. Results: A total of 187 health workers were included in the study. The injuries were most common among nurses 48.66%. The most common instrument causing needle-stick and sharps injuries was needle tip 80.8%. In addition, 89.85% of them were vaccinated for hepatitis B. According to the serological status of infected sources, 8.02% were infected with hepatitis B, 10.16% with hepatitis C and 2.67% with HIV. No seroconversion was observed in the injured personnel. Conclusion: Although health workers are given regular training on occupational hazards during recruitment and employment, they still face risky injuries. Therefore, all health personnel should be informed to raise their awareness of blood-borne infections, undergo medical screening regularly, and have up-to-date vaccines.