Factors associated with needle stick injuries at Mama Lucy ‘Kibaki Hospital-Accident and Emergency Department

Abstract

Needlestick injuries (NSIs) are a significant occupational risk to healthcare workers (HWCs) globally, consequent upon accidental puncture wounds caused by contaminated sharp objects, particularly hollow-bore syringe needles. Globally, needlestick injuries (NSIs) occur at a rate of 43%, with Africa experiencing the highest incidence at 51% (WHO, 2022). For every 1,000 NSIs from an infected patient, approximately 300 HCWs are prone to contracting HBV. The rates of seroconversion for HCV and HIV are estimated at 30 per 1,000 NSIs and 3 per 1,000 NSIs, respectively. The widespread occurrence of needlestick injuries (NSIs) among Kenyan HCWs, is reported at approximately 58%, and accounts for 76.6% of instances where healthcare workers are exposed to HIV/AIDS in the workplace, highlights the urgent necessity for preventive measures. NSIs not only endanger the physical health of providers but also induce significant psychological distress. Immediate action is imperative, necessitating comprehensive training, access to safety equipment, and the establishment of robust reporting systems to ensure a safer work environment and mitigate the risk of infectious disease transmission to healthcare workers. This study aimed to investigate factors associated with needlestick injuries (NSI) among healthcare workers at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, Nairobi, using the Job Demand and Resource (JD-R) model, Job Experience Curve Theory, and Diffusion of Innovation Theory. It explored the impact of occupational cadre, job experience, working hours, and safety devices on NSI occurrences. Data was gathered from healthcare workers in the Accident and Emergency Department through a semi-structured questionnaire based on a 5-point Likert scale and analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential methods, including correlation analysis and also thematic analysis. The results revealed strong positive correlations between inadequate safety devices and training (Spearman’s rho = 0.578), work experience (Spearman’s rho = 0.540), working hours (Spearman’s rho = 0.346), and exposure from occupational cadre (Spearman’s rho = 0.333) with NSIs. The recommendations focus on improving safety for healthcare workers to reduce needlestick injuries. These include targeted training for nurses, mentorship programs, shift rotations to reduce fatigue, and increased availability of safety-engineered devices (SEDs). Regular safety drills, workshops, and monitoring compliance are also suggested to reinforce best practices. KEY WORDS: Health Care Workers, Needle Stick Injury, Occupation Cadre, Safety engineered Devices, Work Experience.