Availability of Infrastructure Facilities for the Prevention of Occupational Sharps Injuries in six Base Hospitals in Sri Lanka

Introduction A sharp injury is defined as any cut or prick caused by any type of needle or other sharp objects that may result in percutaneous exposure to blood and body fluids as a result of previous use on a patient. Healthcare workers (HCW) come into contact with infected people on a regular basis and are at a high risk of contracting blood-borne pathogens such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV. Every year, approximately 5.9 percent of HCW are exposed to HBV, 2.6 percent to HCV, and 0.5 percent to HIV (WHO). The administration's provision of adequate resources is a critical factor in the successful prevention of sharp injuries. Objective To describe the existing infrastructure facilities for the management of occupational sharps injuries at ward settings of all six base hospitals in Kalutara and Galle districts, Sri Lanka. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in all Kalutara and Galle district base hospitals. The data was gathered using two checklists, direct observations, and key informant interviews. On a scale ranging from nil to good, the availability of the facilities was noted. Results Sharp disposal containers were readily available in all wards, however, access to them was limited in 64% of them. 69 percent of wards stated to have insufficient working space. In 37% of the wards, poor illumination was mentioned. In five hospitals, post-exposure reporting forms were not available in the wards. In five hospitals, demonstrations of safety rules, post-exposure management guidelines, and the sharps disposal process were not provided. In 66 percent of base hospitals, hepatitis B vaccines were not available. In two base hospitals, post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV was not provided. Conclusions and recommendations Working circumstances that are congested and have poor lighting must be rectified. In five institutions, a demonstration of guidelines for the prevention and management of sharp injuries is required. In some facilities, postexposure prophylaxis for HIV and Hepatitis B vaccines should be availabl