BACKGROUND: Needle stick injuries are associated with a risk of infection. The aim of this study was to collate the reasons for the failure to carry out prophylactic measures from the perspective of those affected. METHODS: An anonymous internet questionnaire was designed to record the experiences of health care workers at the University Hospital Rostock with secondary infection prophylaxis after needle stick injuries. RESULTS: During the investigation period 106 questionnaires were returned. There were deficiencies in the acceptance of prophylactic measures due to job-associated lack of time and social pressure. CONCLUSION: The study suggests reorganization of work-flows and additional educational measures about the necessity of prophylactic procedures after needle stick injuries.
BACKGROUND: Needle stick injuries are associated with a risk of infection. The aim of this study was to collate the reasons for the failure to carry out prophylactic measures from the perspective of those affected. METHODS: An anonymous internet questionnaire was designed to record the experiences of health care workers at the University Hospital Rostock with secondary infection prophylaxis after needle stick injuries. RESULTS: During the investigation period 106 questionnaires were returned. There were deficiencies in the acceptance of prophylactic measures due to job-associated lack of time and social pressure. CONCLUSION: The study suggests reorganization of work-flows and additional educational measures about the necessity of prophylactic procedures after needle stick injuries.
Authors: Martin A Makary; Ali Al-Attar; Christine G Holzmueller; J Bryan Sexton; Dora Syin; Marta M Gilson; Mark S Sulkowski; Peter J Pronovost Journal: N Engl J Med Date: 2007-06-28 Impact factor: 91.245