FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH NEEDLE STICK INJURY AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN AL-AHSA, SAUDI ARABIA

Background: Needle stick injuries (NSIs) pose a significant occupational hazard for healthcare workers (HCWs), risking transmission of bloodborne pathogens. This study aimed to identify factors associated with NSIs among HCWs in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia.

Methods: A case-control study was conducted among 380 HCWs (190 cases, 190 controls) in governmental health facilities. Data were collected through a questionnaire addressing participant characteristics, occupational information, and NSI risk factors. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with NSIs.

Results: Younger age and less work experience were associated with increased NSI risk. Completion of training programs, including Basic Infection Control Skills License (OR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.36-0.91), orientation programs (OR: 0.43, 95% CI: 0.29-0.71), and workplace safety training (OR: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.29-0.63), significantly reduced NSI risk. Disposal containers filled above two-thirds capacity increased NSI risk (OR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.0-3.6). Use of certain devices, such as spinal/epidural needles and arterial catheter introducer needles, was associated with lower NSI risk.

Conclusion: Comprehensive training programs, proper sharps disposal practices, and use of certain safety-engineered devices may reduce NSI risk among HCWs. Targeted interventions for younger, less experienced HCWs are warranted. These findings can inform the development of effective NSI prevention strategies in healthcare settings.