Determination of Exposure Risk to Infected Blood and Body Fluids in Health Care Workers

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Objective: The sharp and cutting objects injuries and the splashing of blood and body fluids to the mucous membranes create the risk of transmission of HIV and hepatitis in the health care workers. The aim of this study is to determine the rates of exposure to the blood and the body fluids of the health personnel and their level of knowledge and attitudes as well. Material and Methods: The study was examined on a total of 298 people including doctors, interns, nurses/midwifes, laboratory technicians and caregivers in the five different hospitals in Afyon. The exposure of the sharp and cutting objects, the behaviour of the participants after exposure and the level of knowledge regarding the transmission of injuries were investigated with the survey. Results: There were 122 participants (40,9 %) were exposed to pinprick and 83 participants (27,9 %) were exposed to the splashing to the eye and mucosa at least once within the last one year. In addition to them, 80 participants (26,8 %) reported that, they were exposed the sharp and cutting objects injuries at least once during the last year. Sixty three persons (21 %) were exposed to the contaminated material and they reported this to the hospital administration. It is known that, 265 health care workers (88,3 %) were vaccinated against hepatitis B. Conclusion: As a result of this study shows that, the health care workers have the high risk of exposure to blood and body fluids during the application of their professionals.

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The sharp and cutting objects injuries , occupational exposure , health workers

Kocatepe Medical Journal

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Kocatepe Medical Journal