Prevalence and Risk Factors of Needlestick Injuries among Healthcare Workers: A Cross-sectional Study

Needlestick injuries (NSIs) are a major occupational hazard among healthcare workers and expose them to serious blood-borne infections such as hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, and human immunodeficiency virus. Healthcare workers in teaching hospitals, particularly interns and residents, are at increased risk due to limited experience, high workload, and frequent involvement in invasive procedures. Despite the availability of universal precautions, NSIs continue to occur and are often underreported.

The objectives of this study were to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding NSIs among healthcare workers and residents, to evaluate reporting behavior and postexposure management, and to identify gaps between knowledge and safe practices.

A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among 160 healthcare workers and residents at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Data on demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitude, practices, and reporting behavior related to NSIs were collected using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Associations were assessed using the Chi-square test, and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

The majority of participants were aged ≤30 years (65.0%) and had ≤5 years of clinical experience (61.3%). Nearly half of the participants had experienced a NSI. Healthcare workers with more than 5 years of experience demonstrated significantly better knowledge regarding NSIs (P = 0.009). Nursing staff and residents showed a significantly more positive attitude toward NSI prevention compared to interns (P = 0.015). Adequate knowledge was significantly associated with safer needle handling practices (P = 0.013); however, a substantial knowledge-practice gap persisted. Reporting of NSIs was significantly higher among participants aware of postexposure prophylaxis (P = 0.005).

NSIs remain common among healthcare workers, particularly early-career staff. Although knowledge and attitude were satisfactory, unsafe practices and underreporting were prevalent. Regular training, reinforcement of universal precautions, and effective reporting systems are essential to reduce occupational exposure.