Are Those Who Protect Protected? Occupational Risk Among Medical Students in Romania

Occupational exposure to blood and body fluids (OEBBF) continues to represent an important public health problem due to the associated medical, social and economic consequences. Young healthcare workers are at high risk of OEBBF because of their lack of experience, hesitation before performing a task and the nature of the task performed. This study aims to comparatively evaluate the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions on OEBBF among students from the Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of Dental Medicine at Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, during the 2021–2022 academic year in order to facilitate the adaptation of educational materials used in training programs. Out of the 911 students who completed the questionnaire, 55% (502) correctly identified hepatitis B virus (HBV) as having the highest risk of transmission after an OEBBF, with statistically significantly higher percentages among Dental Medicine students (152; 60% vs. 350; 53%; p = 0.003). However, lower percentages of Dental Medicine students recognized the protective concentration of antibodies against HBV (173; 68% vs. 536; 82%; p < 0.001) or reported knowing to be vaccinated against hepatitis B (110; 43% vs. 459; 70%; p < 0.001). Additionally, higher percentages of Dental Medicine students reported not having an antibodies concentration measurement since they started their clinical practice (206; 81% vs. 439; 67%; p < 0.001). If an OEBBF were to occur, 43% (391) reported that they would induce bleeding, either instinctively (210; 23%) or because they considered it necessary (181; 20%). Ninety-three students (10%) reported at least one past OEBBF; 59 (63%) reported it to their supervisors. Statistically significantly higher percentages of Dental Medicine students reported a high perceived risk of exposure compared to Medicine students (117; 46% vs. 202; 31%; p < 0.001), with the finding supported by univariable and multivariable analyses. In conclusion, the reporting frequency of past OEBBF in our study population was low. However, enhanced efforts are required to improve knowledge and awareness regarding OEBBF risk and preventive measures. Additionally, efforts should focus on assessing the level of protection against hepatitis B among Dental Medicine students and on promoting timely reporting to ensure appropriate post-exposure management.