Mapping Biological Risks Related to Necropsy Activities: Old Concerns and Novel Issues for the Safety of Health Professionals

Abstract

Nowadays only a few studies on biological and environmental risk among healthcare workers are available in literature. The present study aims to assess the health operator’s risk of contact with microorganisms during necropsy activities, to evaluate the efficiency of current protections, to identify possible new sources of contact, and to point out possible preventive measures. In addition, considering the current pandemic scenario, the risk of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the dissection room is assessed. The objectives were pursued through two distinct monitoring campaigns carried out in different periods through sampling performed both on the corpses and at the environmental level.

Clinical Risk Management: As Modern Tool for Prevention and Management of Care and Prevention Occupational Risk

“…Tomao et al [ 3 ], instead, analyzed biological risks related to necropsy activities, which can expose individuals to infectious diseases directly (e.g., accidental punctures or wounds and splashes of biological materials) or indirectly (e.g., inhalation of aerosol particles). This requires an attentive risk analysis, through environmental and air microbiological monitoring, clinical–anamnestic questionnaires where the operators are questioned on if they use personal protective equipment (PPE), the adoption of specific prevention measures, and the performing of bacteriological and virological tests on cadaveric samples.…”

“…However, risk management in the COVID-19 era involves not only healthcare structures but even necropsy activities (Tomao et al [ 3 ]), penitentiary facilities (Pagano et al [ 8 ]), and nursing homes (Bolcato et al [ 9 ]).…”