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ISSN 2063-5346
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NEEDLESTICK AND SHARP OBJECT INJURIES AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS: RISK FACTORS AND PREVENTION

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Amal Saeed Hadi Alyami, Mohammed Ali Hussein Al Swidan, Mohammed Hussein Saleh Al Shibah, Bader Salem Mohammad Al Sharman, Abdullah Nasser Ali Alaji, Reem Saeed Hadi Alyami, Mona Saeed Ali Alyami, Alnaho Saeed Amir Alsayari, Ali Nasser Hadi Hokash Alyami
» doi: 10.53555/ecb/2023.12.2.047

Abstract

Introduction: Needlestick and sharp object injuries represent a significant occupational hazard faced by healthcare workers worldwide. A systematic review focusing on needlestick and sharp object injuries among healthcare workers is essential due to the heterogeneous nature of existing research. The aim of this systematic review is to comprehensively synthesize existing literature to provide a comprehensive understanding of the prevalence, risk factors, and prevention strategies related to needlestick and sharp object injuries among healthcare workers. Methods: This systematic review follows PRISMA guidelines and has a pre-registered study protocol to ensure transparency and mitigate bias. It includes studies involving healthcare workers (e.g., nurses, doctors) focusing on needlestick and sharp object injuries, examining risk factors, prevalence, consequences, and prevention strategies. A comprehensive search strategy is executed across multiple databases, with two independent reviewers screening and assessing studies. Eligible studies include observational and intervention studies without publication date restrictions. Data extraction utilizes a standardized form, and no ethical approval is needed as the review relies on published data. Results: In our systematic review, we initially identified 1,523 articles through a database search, which underwent a stepwise screening process, resulting in 198 articles after assessing titles and abstracts. Subsequently, these 198 articles underwent a rigorous full-text evaluation. After this thorough assessment, 14 studies were included that met our predefined eligibility criteria. Our synthesis of the observational studies revealed recurring risk factors for needlestick and sharp object injuries among healthcare workers, including inadequate training, the impact of fatigue and extended working hours, and insufficient personal protective equipment (PPE). Additional factors like job category, experience level, and compliance with safety protocols were also highlighted in specific studies. Conclusions: This systematic review highlights the importance of standardized approaches to enhance healthcare worker safety, particularly in addressing risk factors like inadequate training, fatigue, and inadequate personal protective equipment (PPE). The effectiveness of prevention strategies, as demonstrated in our meta-analysis, underscores the value of comprehensive programs in reducing injury rates, emphasizing the need for more standardized and multifaceted safety measures across healthcare settings.

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