Accidentality from Mucocutaneous Exposure to Biological Fluids Among Clinical Laboratory Professionals

Abstract

Occupational exposure to biological fluids through mucocutaneous contact and related factors was determined through a descriptive study using a sample of 156 medical technicians working in public clinical laboratories in the metropolitan area of Zulia. A survey for data collection was designed which explored exposure and related factors such as compliance with post biological exposure measures. The age average of the bioanalysts was 41.9± 9.7; 87.2% were female. Results evidenced occupational exposure through mucocutaneous accidents, with a prevalence rate of 172.6 accidents for every 100 workers, represented primarily by splashes 44.3% and spray 32.7%, detected at amoderate level involving female workers with age ranges 54-60 and 26-32, 1-8 years on the job, during day shifts. Biological accidentality according to associate factors showed moderate exposure levels for all the biological fluids investigated in small volumes, at the level of the ocular mucosa, in sample processing and waste disposal areas. A medium compliance level was recorded for post-exposure handling, with a statistically significant difference (p>0.01) among the measures investigated. The magnitude and characteristics of exposure to biological fluids poses a problem that could impact personnel health, and it should be addressed institutionally to achieve effective prevention and risk control management.

Keywords

• Exposición laboral, fluidos biológicos, accidentes, muco-cutánea, laboratorio clínico, cumplimiento, manejo post-exposición