Universal work precautions among health workers in private institutes

Objective: Aim of the present study was to evaluate the awareness of health workers about universal work precautions and implementation of their knowledge in private institutes of Latur. Methodology Cross-sectional study of health workers was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire, which enquired about knowledge, attitude and practices of universal work precautions. Results: 210 questionnaires were sent to health workers and 150 of them were returned giving a response rate of 72%. 96 % of the participants were aware of universal work precautions. Out of 150 participants 53.33 % were injured while working and 68.75 % of them used the first aid box. All the participants wore gloves during laboratory work but 53.43 % wore a single pair. 47.94 % of the participants claimed to know what to do if exposed to infection. 5.33 % of the participants ate in the laboratory, 2.22 % of them stored foods and water in the refrigerators, 2.22 % of them put on cosmetics in the laboratory. 61.33 % were immunized against hepatitis B virus (HBV). 47.94 % of them did take shower immediately after laboratory work. 58.0 % of the participants did not feel that the use of masks is necessary at the place of work. Conclusion: The knowledge, attitude and practical implementation of universal work precautions amongst health workers is poor