Assessment of the Management of Sharps Injuries in Government Hospitals: the Malaysian Situation

Abstract

Introduction: Management of occupational hazards has been a priority and sharps injuries is a known potential risk to healthcare workers. With the known risks of potential infections, to the workers as well as the patients, our workers need protection from further danger. Objective: This study looked at the measures taken on managing the affected healthcare workers. Methods: A cross-sectional survey using self-administered questionnaire was sent to 55 hospital directors. They were required to inform on their management practices on sharps injuries. Results: 7KH ¿QGLQJV VKRZHG YDULDWLRQV LQ WKH PDQDJHPHQW RI VKDUSV LQMXULHV GXULQJ DQG DIWHU RI¿FH KRXUV YDULDWLRQ LQ WKH VLWH RI NHHSLQJ WKH UHFRUGV SHUVRQ UHVSRQVLEOH and variation in the frequency of data analysis and presentation to hospital directors. Discussion: According to OSHA Act 1994, it is the responsibility of the employer to ensure safety, health and welfare of the employee. In management of sharps injury data from injury reporting should be compiled and assessed. Reporting feedback need to be encouraged with timely follow-up of all sharps injury cases. Reporting of sharps injuries is essential to ensure that all healthcare workers receive appropriate post-exposure medical treatment. Conclusion & Recommendation: A uniform management of sharps injuries protocol need to be established to improve reporting. An avenue to present sharps injuries data regularly is needed so as appropriate management of workers be ensured. Therefore adherence to the available guidelines need to be ensured.