[High-risk needlestick injuries and virus transmission : A prospective observational study]

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Needlestick injuries (NSI) pose a significant occupational risk to healthcare personnel (HCP), with potential transmission of blood-borne viruses such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV).
• Effective post-exposure management and monitoring are crucial for preventing infection and mitigating the psychological impact on HCP.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of follow-up monitoring protocols for HCP after NSI.
• To assess the early recognition of HIV, HCV, and HBV transmission.
• To determine HCP adherence to post-exposure prophylaxis and the psychological burden associated with NSI.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of clinical and serological data from HCP following NSI.
• Assessment of individual infection risk based on the circumstances of the NSI.
• Review of accident reports and utilization of a standardized questionnaire to evaluate adherence and psychological impact.

Main Results:

• No instances of HIV, HBV, or HCV transmission were recorded among HCP during the study period.
• A total of 112 NSI cases involving infectious index patients were analyzed, with a notable proportion of HIV and HCV.
• High adherence to disinfection (98.3%) and post-exposure prophylaxis (97.9% for HIV/unknown risk) was observed, alongside high follow-up attendance (97.4%).
• A significant proportion of HCP (75%) reported concern following NSI, with 12.2% expressing high concern.

Conclusions:

• Adequate management and comprehensive follow-up of HCP after NSI are effective in minimizing the transmission of blood-borne viruses in occupational settings.
• The study underscores the importance of robust monitoring systems in preventing occupational infections and managing HCP well-being.