Common Causes Associated With Occupational Injuries in Iranian Health Care Workers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Study

Abstract

Introduction Occupational injuries are the most important hazards threatening health care workers (HCWs). Among occupational injuries, needle stick injuries (NSIs) are one of the most common injuries to HCWs during work. 1 HCWs are vulnerable to contact with patients. 2 NSIs in HCWs significantly increase the risk of transmission of infectious diseases such as AIDS and hepatitis B and C. 3-5 According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there have been 16 000 cases of hepatitis C, 66 000 cases of hepatitis B, and 1000 AIDS cases following occupational exposure. 6 In addition to the transmission of infectious diseases, these injuries can endanger the mental health of HCWs and impose heavy costs resulting from the treatment of infected personnel. 5,7 In addition to the risk of illness and death, psychological damage, and long-term disability, occupational exposure to sharp objects is also associated with fear, tension, and anxiety. 8,9 Furthermore, it imposes a heavy economic burden on countries. 10 A serious infection with blood-borne viruses can cost $1 million because of tests, follow-up, disability, and loss of work; the cost of preventing occupational injuries is estimated to be $3000. 10,11 Despite the high prevalence of this occupational injuries among HCWs, they can be prevented. 12-14 Identifying the factors associated with occupational injuries helps health policy-makers minimize and prevent these types of injuries. There are no coherent reports on the common causes of occupational injuries among Iran's HCWs; thus, this meta-analysis aimed to determine precisely the common causes of occupational injuries in Iranian HCWs. Methods This is a systematic review and meta-analysis of the research conducted on occupational injuries among HCWs in Iran.

Needle stick and sharps injuries among healthcare workers in Fasa city, Southwestern Iran, 2017

“…Medical staff working at hospitals are highly exposed to occupational hazards caused by daily exposure to body fluids and secretions (1,2). Needle stick and sharp injuries are a major cause of infections among healthcare staff (3). Needle stick injuries significantly increase the transmission risk of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, hepatitis C and hepatitis B (3).…”

“…Needle stick and sharp injuries are a major cause of infections among healthcare staff (3). Needle stick injuries significantly increase the transmission risk of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, hepatitis C and hepatitis B (3). Healthcare staff, such as physicians, nurses, health workers, and lab technicians are at risk more than others, and the prevalence of needle stick injuries is higher among them (4).…”