A KAP Study of Needle Prick Injury Among Healthcare Professionals in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Background * Needle stick injuries (NSIs) are a major occupational hazard in healthcare settings. More than 20 blood-borne pathogens can be transmitted through NSIs, with HIV, hepatitis B (HBV), and hepatitis C (HCV) being the most life- threatening. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, awareness, and practices related to NSIs among various healthcare workers Methods * Study design:A cross sectional study. A total of 153 participants were interviewed using a pretested questionnaire between April 25 and May 25. The questionnaire assessed their experiences with NSIs, knowledge of disease transmission, prophylaxis, use of protective measures, and hepatitis vaccination status. Results * - 86.3% were aware that NSIs transmit diseases, but 75% of Class IV staff lacked this awareness. - Nurses (32%) were the most affected group. - 34% reported experiencing an NSI during use. - Only 11.7% took prophylaxis, although 89.7% were aware of its availability. - Most prophylaxis was taken on a doctor's advice (92%). - 69% were fully immunized for hepatitis B; 100% of Class IV staff were not immunized. - Awareness of prophylaxis sources was primarily through doctors (44%) and books (30%). Conclusion * Awareness and knowledge about NSIs are relatively high among medical professionals, but there are significant gaps in practice, especially among nurses and Class IV staff. Hepatitis B vaccination coverage is inadequate in certain groups, and prompt post-exposure prophylaxis is underutilized. Targeted educational interventions and regular training programs are essential to improve safety practices.