Abstract:Background: Needle stick and sharp injuries (NSSIs) pose a significant occupational hazard among healthcare workers (HCWs), increasing the risk of transmission of bloodborne pathogens such as HIV, HCV, and HBV. Ophthalmology, being a microsurgical specialty, involves frequent use of sharp instruments under magnification and dim lighting, making HCWs particularly vulnerable.
Objective: This study aims to assess the prevalence, risk factors, and post-exposure practices associated with NSSIs among healthcare workers in ophthalmology departments across medical colleges and teaching hospitals in India.
Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among ophthalmology HCWs, including consultants, residents, nurses, and housekeeping staff. Data on the incidence, mode of injury, post-exposure actions, and knowledge of safety protocols were collected and analyzed.
Results: A total of 512 HCWs participated in the study, with 108 (21%) reporting NSSIs in the past year. Nurses had the highest incidence (47.3%), followed by housekeeping staff (28.7%), residents (21.2%), and consultants (2.7%). The most common cause of injury was the passing of sharp instruments (38.8%), followed by improper biomedical waste disposal (37.7%). While all consultants, residents, and nurses were aware of post-exposure protocols, only 22.5% of injured housekeeping staff had adequate knowledge. Most HCWs received post-exposure evaluation, but underreporting due to privacy concerns was noted.
Conclusion: NSSIs are a significant risk in ophthalmology practice, especially among nurses and housekeeping staff. Implementing safer intraoperative practices, such as neutral zone instrument transfer, improving biomedical waste disposal, and conducting regular training programs, can help reduce incidence and enhance post-exposure management.
