Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Sharps injuries remain a prevalent occupational hazard for nurses, with implications for both physical and psychological health. Even minor injuries can lead to heightened anxiety due to the potential risk of infection. AIM: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of sharps injuries and identify associated risk factors among nurses in a tertiary care hospital setting. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted from September to November 2023 among 339 nurses employed at a public sector, tertiary care teaching hospital in Bihar, India. Participants were selected using a convenience sampling method. Data were collected through a structured, self-administered questionnaire distributed via a Google Form. Both descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were employed. RESULTS: The prevalence of sharps injuries among participants was 8.84%. Injuries were more frequently reported in high-demand units and during tasks involving the preparation or use of medical devices. CONCLUSION: The overall prevalence of sharps injuries was relatively low. However, the findings underscore the importance of targeted safety interventions. Implementing unit-specific precautions and enhancing biomedical waste management practices are essential to improving occupational safety and reducing injury risks among nurses.
Source: Cureus
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.96650
Authors: Priyanka Elizabeth Thomas, Rathish Nair, Visanth VS, Girishkumar K
Institution: All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna
Language: English
Subfield: Infectious Diseases
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4416138338