Occupational exposure to blood and body fluids and associated factors among healthcare workers in Zanzibar: A case of Mnazi Mmoja Referral Hospital

Abstract

Background: Occupational exposure to blood and body fluids is a risk healthcare workers face. The most common exposures include Hepatitis B and C Virus and Human Immunodeficiency Virus which may be present in patients' blood and body fluids.

Objective: This study aimed to assess occupational exposure to blood and body fluids and associated factors among healthcare workers at Mnazi Mmoja Referral Hospital, Zanzibar.

Method: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among healthcare workers at Mnazi Mmoja Referral Hospital, Zanzibar. Stratified random sampling was used in selecting study participants. A structured questionnaire and observation checklist were used to collect data. Descriptive statistics, univariate, bivariate, and multiple logistic regression analyses were done using a 95% confidence level and a P-value ≤ 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant for the association between dependent and independent variables.

Results: A total of 301 participants were recruited for the study, 235 (78%) and 213 (71%) respondents reported having been exposed to blood and body fluids in their lifetime and the past 12 months respectively. In addition to this, sharp object injuries were reported as the most occurring exposure at 110 (52%) followed by a splash at 103 (48%). The contributing factors for this type of exposure included inappropriate healthcare workers' practices concerning adhering to SOPs, inadequate use of PPE, lack of on-the-job training, inadequate supervision, and inadequate safety signs.

Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of occupational exposure to blood and body fluids at Mnazi Mmoja referral hospital, Zanzibar. Thus, hospital management should provide standard operating procedures, staff training, and adequate protective equipment to reduce the exposure and the Ministry of Health should develop strategies to ensure that occupational health and safety guidelines are available and implemented in all healthcare facilities.