ASSESSMENT OF OCCUPATIONAL RISK EXPOSURES AND THE DEGREE OF IMPLEMENTATION OF STANDARD PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT AMONG MEDICAL PERSONNEL

Knowledge and application in practice of hygienic and epidemiological standards and the algorithm for post-exposure prophylaxis of blood-borne infections are decisive for their reliable prevention. Aim: Assessment of participants' knowledge and behavior regarding hygienic and epidemiological standards and awareness regarding the algorithm for post-exposure prophylaxis of medical personnel for hepatitis B, hepatitis C and human immunodeficiency virus infection. Materials and methods: the period is March 2024- March 2025. 164 respondents working in the Emergency Department of the University Hospital "St. George" - Plovdiv participated in the survey. Results: mean age is 39.4 years (SD = 13.0). Approximately 32.3% are men, 82.3% report wearing gloves for each patient, and 80,5% are vaccinated with HBV. The prevalence of occupational incidence was 45.7% (n = 75).51.3% reported "2 ", 28.2% reported "1 ", 12.8% reported "3 ", 5.1% reported ">5 ", and 2.6% reported "5 ".Among the 73 participants with available data, post-incidence measures included washing the wound/stab site with soap and water and disinfection (65.3%), testing for Hepatitis B/C (26.7%), and testing for HIV (5.3%) Conclusion: Only knowledge and compliance with a strict anti-epidemic regime and hygienic-epidemiological standards will ensure a safe working environment and prevention of blood-borne infections.