8292371 Impact of occupational injuries among paramedical staff on the quality of care provided in public hospitals

<h3>Objective</h3> To describe the characteristics of occupational injuries (OI) among paramedical staff in public hospitals and to analyse their impact on the quality of care provided to patients. <h3>Methods</h3> Cross-sectional descriptive study conducted in April 2025 among paramedical staff at La Rabta Hospital in Tunis who had suffered at least one OI during their professional career, using an anonymous self-administered questionnaire. <h3>Results</h3> A total of 79 cases were collected. The mean age was 30.4 ± 7.6 years, with a female predominance (sex ratio: 0.68). Nurses accounted for 73% of the workforce, with a median seniority of 6 years. The departments most affected were cardiology (20%) and medical emergencies (19%). A number ≥2 OI were reported in 43% of cases, the most significant of which occurred less than a year ago in 51% of cases. The most frequent accidents were blood exposure accidents (48%), skin injuries (33%) and verbal aggression (13%). Medical treatment was provided in 77.3% of cases, but was deemed insufficient in 27%. OI were reported to the authorities in 85% of cases, but 15% did not receive any compensation. Sixteen victims were left with physical after-effects (scars, joint limitations), nine of whom reported discomfort in their daily tasks. Psychological after-effects included anxiety (70%) and depression (23%), 10% of which required psychiatric treatment. Professional consequences included reduced motivation (68%), concentration (69%), self-confidence (58.3%) and quality of care (72%), with 19% of errors attributed to a lack of vigilance. Verbal aggression was associated with anxiety (p=0.015) and psychiatric referral (p=0.05). Impaired quality of care was statistically associated with anxiety (p=0.002), depression (p=0.005), and reduced concentration or motivation (p &lt; 0.001). <h3>Conclusion</h3> Prompt and appropriate medical and psychological management of work-related accidents is essential to limit their repercussions and preserve the quality of care in hospitals.