Needle stick injuries among nurses in Italy: a review

Background. Needle stick injuries (NSI) are a frequent problem among the medical and nurse population: NIS can cause blood exposure pathologies like HCV or HIV. Aim of this study is to determinate an incidence rate and causes of NSI. Methods. A search was conducted on the main international databases, only studies conducted in Italian nurse are considered. Results. The incidence rate of NSI varies from 2.2 to 10.77 per 100 nurses per year. The major causes can be traced back to a large night shift, working in the operating block and in the medical departments, and the failure to use adequate devices. Conclusions. It is important to work on training, on the use of safety devices and on a better night shift.