Occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens in operationrelated health care workers

Abstract:

ObjectiveTo investigate the occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens in operationrelated  health care workers (HCWs), so as to provide evidence for the occupational preventive measures. MethodsSurveillance reporting system for exposure to bloodborne pathogens was established, occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens in operationrelated  HCWs was surveyed. ResultsFrom January 1, 2005 to December 31, 2008,197  operationrelated  HCWs were reported to be exposed to bloodborne pathogens, 41 of whom had ruptured skin or mucosa exposure, 156 had sharp injuries. Doctors had the highest occupational exposure rate, which was up to 78.05%; the rate of occupational exposure in HCWs with short length of service(0~10 years) was 70.73%; the rate of blood or body fluid splash exposure was 92.68%, 92.68% of which was blood splash ; among sharp injuries, 58.33% were caused by suture needles; 60.91% of bloodborne pathogen was HBsAg. Intervention in HCWs who had occupational exposure were  taken, followup survey showed that no one were infected due to exposure. ConclusionTraining on occupational exposure should be strengthened, awareness of use of goggles should be enhanced, eyewashing service should be provided in operating room, the use, delivery and handling  of sharp objects should be correct, initiative intervention after exposure should be taken, so as to protect the safety of HCWs.