Occupational Health Cognizance: Needle stick injuries among student nurses

Abstract

Objectives: The present study was conducted to assess the Occupational Health cognizance related to NSIs among Student Nurses. Methods: In this cross-sectional study data was collected from 312 Student Nurses using structured, self-administered questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed by employing the statistical package, SPSS version 20. Univariate, Bivariate and Binary logistic regression was done and the level of significance was set at P < 0.05. Results: The overall prevalence of occupational hazard with needlestick Injuries (NSIs) was 25%. Lack of concentration (55%), performing activities in a hurry (50%) recapping of needle (45%) and not participating in training (39%) were the major attributing components for NSIs. Behavioural factors (28%) were one of the chief components leading to NSIs The factors that were significantly associated with NSIs include Academic year (P = 0.000), source of information (p = 0.018) and immunization Status (p = 0.000). Conclusion: NSIs may give deadly infectious diseases. Hence, strong reporting and recording system must be implemented.

Keywords

• Occupational hazards
• Sharp injury
• Needlestick Injury
• Health care professional
• Post-exposure prophylaxis
• Safe injection practices