Extent of utilization of HIV post-exposure prophylaxis among health care workers of district hospitals,Mtwara region

The main objective of the study was to determine extent of utilization of HIV Post Exposure Prophylaxis (HIV PEP) among Healthcare Workers (HCWs) in three (3) District Hospitals across Mtwara Region (Masasi - Mkomaindo, Newala and Tandahimba). Analytical cross sectional study was conducted from mid July to end July 2008. There were about 65/225 (29%) of respondents who experienced percutaneous exposure in the last past six months. It was observed that number of episodes of percutaneous exposure in period oflast six months was 101 for 65 HCWs. This is approximately an average of 1 episode per HCW in 3 months. Among respondents who experienced percutaneous exposure, only 13/65 (20%) utilized HIV PEP service. Of all respondents 91/225 (40%) were not aware of HIV PEP guideline. More than half of Respondents, 122/225 (54%) had low level of knowledge on HIV PEP national guideline, while 66/225 (29%) had Moderate level of Knowledge and those with High level of knowledge were 37/225 (16%). Of all respondents 102/225 (45%) were not willing to test for HIV at their working area. From the study findings, it was recommended that; Measures be undertaken by Ministry of Health to support the ongoing monitoring of HIV PEP delivery in Health facilities, Confidentiality must be maintained with respect to both the exposed worker and the source person; The successful implementation of HIV PEP policy requires social dialogue between employers, workers and their representative and government