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HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C in the Code One trauma population
1Department of Surgery, St. John Hospital and Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan 48236, USA.
The American Surgeon
|July 1, 1997
Summary
Healthcare workers face risks from bloodborne diseases in trauma care. This study found significant prevalence of HIV, Hepatitis B, and especially Hepatitis C in trauma patients, highlighting potential risks.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Trauma Care
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Trauma patient resuscitation is chaotic, increasing healthcare worker risk of needle-stick injuries.
- A common belief suggests higher communicable bloodborne disease prevalence in trauma populations.
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a primary concern due to fear of transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of HIV, Hepatitis B surface antigen, and Hepatitis C antibodies in a Code One trauma population.
- To assess the risk of bloodborne pathogen exposure for healthcare workers in trauma settings.
Main Methods:
- Blood samples were collected from Code One trauma patients.
- Samples were analyzed for HIV, hepatitis B surface antigen, and hepatitis C antibodies.
Main Results:
- Prevalence rates: 0.52% for HIV, 1.5% for Hepatitis B surface antigen, and 13.8% for Hepatitis C antibodies.
- HIV and Hepatitis B prevalence align with other trauma studies and exceed general population rates.
- Hepatitis C prevalence was unexpectedly high compared to the general population.
Conclusions:
- The prevalence of HIV and Hepatitis B in trauma patients is elevated compared to the general population.
- Hepatitis C poses a significant, potentially underestimated, threat to healthcare personnel in trauma settings.
- Findings underscore the importance of stringent infection control measures during trauma resuscitation.