Circumstances of Occurrence and Post-Exposure Management of Body Fluids related Injuries Among Healthcare Workers in a Regional Level Referral Hospital (Bertoua, Cameroon)

Abstract Background Healthcare workers (HCW) are exposed to infectious agents within biological materials including blood, tissues, other body fluids and on medical supplies, contaminated surfaces within the care delivery environment. The present study aimed to assess the level of exposure to body fluids and their related health risks at the Bertoua Regional Hospital. Methods We carried out a hospital-based cross-sectional study from 1st November 2020 to 31st May 2021. The exhaustive sampling method was used and all consenting HCWs were invited to participate. The study instrument was a pre-tested self-administered questionnaire addressing issues related to the experiences, circumstances of occurrence, reporting and management of occupational exposures to body fluids. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 20.4. Results The prevalence of accidental exposure to body fluids was 39.2%. Most cases of AEB occurred in the obstetrics and laboratory wards ( p = 0.001). Nurses were the most affected professional group (51.7%). Lack of knowledge (79%), patient agitation (49%) were the most reported reasons explaining AEBs occurrence. Half of participants reported using PPE systematically. Face mask (59.2%) and gowns (30.8%) were the most mentioned PPE used to prevent splashes. Most HCWs did not report AEB (62%). Half of the affected HCWs (50.8%) reported that they received a course of post-exposure antiretroviral therapy. The Hepatitis B vaccination coverage was low (8.3%). Conclusion Accidental exposure to body fluids affected over 50% of HCWs in the studied Regional Hospital. Most cases of AEB occurred in the obstetrics and laboratory wards and nurses were the most affected professional group. Half of participants reported using PPE systematically. Hepatitis B vaccination coverage was low. There is need to strengthen the observance of standard precautions, including preventive vaccination and the systematic reporting of AEB.