Student Anxiety and Stress Related to Needlestick/Sharps Injuries in Dental Clinics

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE: This study explored how the threat of needlestick/sharps injuries affects stress and anxiety among dental, dental hygiene, and dental assisting students in accredited US programs. It also aimed to identify contributing factors and assess potential educational interventions. METHODS: Following IRB exemption, a mixed-methods survey was distributed between April 17th and July 7th, 2025, via program directors nationally and administered through Qualtrics. The survey included Likert-scale and open-ended questions assessing students' anxiety, stress, injury history, confidence, awareness of post-exposure protocols, and training adequacy. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square analysis; qualitative responses were analyzed using Creswell and Poth Data Analysis Spiral. RESULTS: Of 300 valid responses, 52% were dental hygiene students, 41% dental students, and 7% dental assisting students. While only 14% reported experiencing a needlestick/sharps injury, 76% reported at least mild anxiety about the risk, and 81% expressed concern about disease transmission. Dental students reported significantly higher anxiety than dental hygiene students (p = 0.00008). Those with prior injuries were more likely to report anxiety (p = 0.0004) and insufficient training (p = 0.013). Despite most reporting awareness of post-exposure protocols, open-ended responses revealed confusion, underreporting, and concerns about institutional response and judgment. CONCLUSION(S): The threat of needlestick/sharps injuries significantly contributes to stress and anxiety among dental healthcare students, particularly those with prior injuries. Findings suggest a need for curriculum improvements, including supportive stress management resources following injury, and enhanced faculty/staff training on post-exposure protocols. These interventions could improve both student well-being and safety culture in dental education.