Occurrence of Needlestick Injury Among the Healthcare Workers in a Tertiary Care Center in Western Rajasthan, India

Objective: To assess the practice of NSI among HCWs and their follow-up. Materials and Methods: Hospital-based cross-sectional study from June 2021 to December 2022. HCWs were given a self-administered questionnaire, their blood samples were collected for viral markers, and they were followed up at 6, 12, and 24 weeks. Results: Of 805 HCWs, 212 (26.33%) had experienced NSI, with a predominance of nurses; 110/212 (51.8%). Underreporting was seen in 56/212 (26.4%) HCWs. Unknown sources were 58 (27.4%) and 31/212 (14.6%) had seropositive sources. Only 77 (36.3%) cases were followed up to completion, and no seroconversion was noted. Factors increasing the chances of infection post-NSI were nonprotective anti-HBs titers, incomplete vaccination, deep injury, late reporting, nonadherence to PEP, and seropositive source. Conclusion: Need a multifaceted approach combining educational training, policy implementation, and surveillance. Continued research and targeted interventions will contribute to a safer healthcare environment for HCWs and patients.