Abstract
Introduction
Needlestick and sharps injuries (NSIs) pose significant occupational hazards for healthcare workers (HCWs), particularly in low-resource settings. These injuries risk transmitting bloodborne pathogens such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. Despite global efforts, HCWs face persistent challenges related to unsafe practices, inadequate protective equipment, and insufficient training. Therefore, we aimed to assess the prevalence of NSIs among HCWs at Khmer Soviet Friendship Hospital (KSFH), identify factors contributing to these injuries and provide evidence-based recommendations for prevention.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted with 145 HCWs across eight departments in KSFH. Data was collected via self-administered questionnaires among healthcare workers to explore their demographic characteristics, work practices, and NSI occurrence. We used statistical analyses, which included both descriptive and inferential methods, to describe and to evaluate associations between variables. Data was managed and analyzed via SPSS 26 software.
Results
The overall mean age was 30.3 years (SD ± 6.12), with slightly less than half (46.9%) of them being females. The prevalence of NSIs was 78.6%, with the ICU identified as a high-risk area (29.8% of injuries). Unsafe practices such as needle recapping were prevalent (93.8%), of which 46.5% of healthcare workers reported injuries during recapping. Commonly, left-hand injuries (57.0%) were reported. Inconsistent use of personal protective equipment was noted. Post-injury testing for hepatitis and HIV was conducted in 86.8% of the HCWs. The provision of hospital education on NSI prevention was reported (71.0%). Male HCWs had a greater NSI than female HCWs did (59.6% vs. 40.0%, p value = 0.002). Additionally, associated nurses and midwives and those working in the ICU reported higher injury rates.
Conclusion
This study highlights urgent needs for targeted interventions to reduce NSIs. Gender, occupation risk exposure, and department-specific risks should be addressed. This occupational hazard requires a multi-faceted approach that combines education and regular training, infrastructure improvement, policy reform, and a cultural shift toward NSI safety. The following recommendations should be addressed: regular and mandatory training on NSI safety, discouraging needle recapping, enhancing personal protective equipment availability, and enforcing safety protocols in high-risk areas.