Original article
English
Wiam A Alashek, Mohammed M. El Baccush
Family and Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alfateh University, Tripoli- Libya.
LJMR Vol 2, Year 2 (2007) :26-33
Abstract
Introduction: One of the most common modes of HIV, HBV and HCV transmission in the health care setting is unintentional blood contact or injury of Health Care Personnel by a needle contaminated with blood from an infected patient. This study aims to determine the exposure of HCP employed at Tripoli Hospitals to blood contact and contaminated injuries and to study the relation of these exposures to age, gender, profession and specialty of HCP. Methods: A random sample of 1225 HCP were selected from 7 Hospitals located in Tripoli City. They were asked to fulfill a questionnaire sheet during Jan 2005. Questionnaire content validity and reliability were tested. HCP were enquired about any incident of exposure to blood contact and contaminated injuries during the preceding year. Results: Out of 1225 HCP (31% males and 69% females) a history of contact with blood were reported among 64.9% and contaminated injury were reported among 42.1%. The exposure rate to blood contact raises from 55.5 % among 18-24 years age group to 71.5% among those who were between 35- 44 years of age (P= 0.006). Contaminated injuries rates increased from 27.4% among 18- 24 years age group to 43.38 % among 24-34 years age group(P < 0.001). No statistically significant differences were found between males and females. High rates of blood contact and contaminated injuries were found among doctors (78% and 52% for blood contact and contaminated injuries respectively)(P < 0.001). Highest rate of blood contact was observed among those specialized in gynecology and obstetrics (88.5%), then surgeons (77.6%), (P < 0.001). Moreover, contaminated injuries were also more frequent among gynecologists and obstetricians (57.3%) and surgeons (54.5%). Least injury rate was reported among physiotherapists (3.5%) (P= 0.000). Conclusion: A considerable proportion of HCP were exposed to blood contact and contaminated injuries and thus were at risk of acquiring adverse events. This study recommends educating HCP about the importance of complying with the universal precautions to ensure safe performance. Keywords: Exposure Of Health Care Personnel To Blood Contact And Contaminated Injuries Link/DOI: