Occupational exposure to blood and body fluids among health care professionals in a military hospital in Greece: A retrospective single-center study

Abstract

Background

Health care professional (HCP) worldwide are subjected to various occupational hazards, including exposure to blood and body fluids (BBF). However, with systematic training and supervision, the impact of such incidents can be significantly mitigated. This study aims to assess the incidence of occupational exposure to BBF among HCPs reported to a military hospital over a 5-year period. Additionally, it seeks to explore the characteristics of the affected HCP and the conditions of exposure, and to evaluate HCP’ overall compliance with the hospital's guidelines.

Methods

This is a retrospective, single-center study that includes all self-reported forms submitted from January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2023.

Results

The overall incidence of BBF exposure was 3.05 per 100 full-time employment-years or 3.01 per 100 HCP per year, whereas the incidence of needlesticks and sharps injuries was 2.73 per 100 full-time employment-years or 2.54 per 100 HCPs per year. Overall, HCP’ compliance was 34.1%, with an increase from 1.6% in 2019 to 45.9% in 2023.

Conclusions

There is a need for a unified process for the collection of nationwide, longitudinal data on exposure to BBF, as well as for the development of targeted training programs on occupational health and safety for HCP.