Respiratory Health Problems Among Endoscopy Nurses Exposed to Glutaraldehyde in Zagazig University Hospitals, Egypt

Abstract

Introduction: Glutaraldehyde is still used for sterilization of endoscopes in Egypt and known to be associated with many respiratory problems, so this study aims to establish control program guidelines to promote the respiratory health of endoscopy nurses in Zagazig University Hospitals with the objectives to assess the frequency of respiratory health problems among endoscopy nurses and to identify associated occupational and personal risk factors. Methods: A comparative crosssectional study carried on 42 endoscopy nurses exposed to glutaraldehyde compared to non-exposed 84 nurses working at outpatient clinics. All nurses were subjected to a questionnaire (socio-demographic and occupational characteristics, chronic respiratory problems), checklist for assessment of glutaraldehyde related work practice and pulmonary function tests. Results: Chronic cough was found in 52.0% of endoscopy nurses while asthma was only in 19.0% of nurse. Chronic respiratory problems increased in endoscopy nurses with increased work duration, poor work practices especially handling procedures and lack of training. All ventilatory lung function parameters of endoscopy nurses showed statistically significant decline with both increased work duration ≥ 15 years and increased working hours ≥ 36 hours per week. Majority of endoscopy nurses 30.0% had mild airflow obstruction. Conclusions: Highlighting the respiratory health problems and airway obstruction resulting from exposure to glutaraldehyde will raise the importance to use safer alternatives. Results will lead to implementing of training programs for proper cleaning and sterilization processes, also raising awareness and providing information about proper work practices of handling hazardous substances.