Occupational Exposure to Needle Stick and Sharp Injuries and Postexposure Prophylaxis Utilization Among Healthcare Professionals in Southwest Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Occupational needle stick and sharp injuries (NSSIs) are significant public health concerns in the healthcare systems of developing countries. In Ethiopia, healthcare facilities commonly underreport these incidents. Therefore, this study aimed to assess occupational exposure to NSSIs and utilization of postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) among healthcare professionals at Mizan‐Tepi University Teaching Hospital (MTUTH) in southwest Ethiopia. Methods: A cross‐sectional study was conducted among 196 healthcare professionals from September 1 to 15, 2021, at the MTUTH in southwest Ethiopia. The data were collected using a self‐administered questionnaire. SPSS Version 21 was used for the data entry and analysis. Logistic regression was employed to identify the factors associated with the dependent variable, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The magnitude of NSSIs was 18.9% ( n = 37/196; 95% CI 13.4%, 24.4%). The proportion of injured participants who underwent PEP was 43.2% ( n = 16/37). Being married [AOR = 2.89, 95% CI (1.11, 7.48)] and not undergoing infection prevention (IP) training [AOR = 4.32, 95% CI (1.40, 13.4)] were associated with an increased likelihood of NSSIs. Conversely, having good knowledge of IP [AOR = 0.17, 95% CI (0.07, 0.42)] was linked to a decreased likelihood of NSSIs. Conclusion: Approximately one in five healthcare professionals experienced NSSIs. Factors associated with NSSIs include being married, receiving IP training, and possessing knowledge of IP. These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive IP training to enhance awareness of IP. Such interventions are critical for minimizing NSSIs and ensuring the safety of healthcare personnel.