Burden, Management, and Outcome of Needle-Stick Injuries Among Healthcare Workers at Muhimbili National Hospital in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Introduction Needle-stick injuries (NSIs) are a major occupational hazard for healthcare workers (HCWs), exposing them to blood-borne pathogens such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV). Despite existing prevention protocols, NSIs remain common in resource-limited settings. This study assessed the burden, management, and outcomes of NSIs among HCWs at Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 healthcare workers from various professional categories. Data were collected from January to December 2025 using a structured self-administered questionnaire assessing demographics, NSI exposure, reporting behavior, post-exposure management, knowledge of NSI protocols, preventive practices, psychological impact, and HBV vaccination status. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the findings. Results Eighty participants (53.3%) reported experiencing at least one NSI during their career. Among exposed participants, 33 (41.3%) reported experiencing two to three NSIs within the previous 12 months. The most common circumstances of injury were patient procedures (n=34, 43.0%), disposal of sharps (n=16, 20.3%), and needle recapping (n=13, 16.5%). Most participants were aware of hospital NSI protocols (n=134, 89.3%) and had received formal training (n=107, 71.3%); however, 68 participants (45.4%) reported always or sometimes recapping needles. Reporting rates were high, with 69 participants (87.3%) reporting their most recent NSI. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) was received or offered to 61 participants (77.2%), and 38 participants (51.4%) initiated PEP within two hours of exposure. Psychological distress following NSI was reported by 67 participants (87.0%). Hepatitis B vaccination coverage was 68.7% (n=103), while 24 participants (16.0%) remained unvaccinated. Conclusion NSIs remain a significant occupational challenge at Muhimbili National Hospital, with substantial prevalence, recurrent injuries, and persistent unsafe practices. Although reporting systems and post-exposure response mechanisms appear robust, gaps remain in needle-handling practices and HBV vaccination coverage. Strengthening preventive training, enforcing non-recapping policies, expanding access to safety-engineered devices, and improving vaccination coverage may help reduce occupational exposure among HCWs.