Prevalence and Characteristics of Needle Stick and Sharp Injuries Among King Salman Armed Forces Hospital Personnel in Tabuk City: A Retrospective Hospital-Based Study

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated characteristics of needle stick and sharp injuries (NSSIs) among King Salman Armed Forces Hospital (KSAFH) personnel. Methods: Data was collected by reviewing all reported NSSIs among KSAFH personnel between January 2020 to December 2022. Results: The prevalence of NSSIs was 2.05%, with nurses being the most commonly affected. Most injuries occurred in patients' rooms/wards and among health care workers (HCWs) aged < 40 years. Of the injured workers, 93.8% were immunized against hepatitis B virus (HBV). Conclusion: Educational and training programs targeting high-risk age groups and professions should be developed. Policies related to locations and situations where injuries occur frequently should be reviewed regularly to reduce the risk of NSSIs.