Healthcare workers, particularly nurses, are at a significant risk of Hepatitis B (HBV) infection, revealed a study conducted by the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh. - File photo
Naina Mishra
Chandigarh, March 16
Healthcare workers, particularly nurses, are at a significant risk of Hepatitis B (HBV) infection, revealed a study conducted by the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh.
Concerning trends
The study, which focuses on emergency, medical and surgical wards, operation theatres, intensive care units, obstetrics areas and dialysis units, brings to light concerning trends regarding awareness, vaccination and safety practices among healthcare providers.
According to the study, Hepatitis B, a major health hazard among healthcare workers, is primarily transmitted through blood and blood products via contaminated instruments or accidental needle injuries.
Nurses, in particular, bear a high burden of needle injuries, with 44% reporting such incidents during the PGI study. Shockingly, only 59% nurses had completed all three doses of the Hepatitis B vaccine, despite it being provided free of cost at the institution.
The study, which focuses on emergency, medical and surgical wards, operation theatres, intensive care units, obstetrics areas and dialysis units, brings to light concerning trends regarding awareness, vaccination and safety practices among healthcare providers.
The study also found that 22% of nurses underwent immunoglobulin level checks after vaccination, raising concerns about the adequacy of immunity among healthcare workers. Of 400 nurses examined, 1.25% tested positive for Hepatitis B, indicating the prevalence of the infection within this critical workforce. While 80% of nurses acknowledged their vulnerability to the HBV infection, the study highlights gaps in knowledge and adherence to safety protocols.
The recommendations in the study include the need for compulsory, ongoing in-service education programmes, the development of management modules for Hepatitis B and other infections, and mandatory Hepatitis B vaccination for all nursing staff.
The Tribune News Service brings you the latest news, analysis and insights from the region, India and around the world. Follow the Tribune News Service for a wide-ranging coverage of events as they unfold, with perspective and clarity.
Join Whatsapp Channel of The Tribune for latest updates.
Most Read In 24 Hours
Don't Miss
View All
Top News
Phase-5: Spotlight on Rajnath, Smriti, Rahul
Polling in 49 seats across six states, 2 UTs today | Omar, L...
As mercury soars, footfall falls 50% to 50K at Golden Temple
SGPC provides water coolers, sprinklers, additional mats for...
UP youth arrested after video of him voting '8 times' in Etah goes viral; Rahul Gandhi warns…
Repolling has been recommended to the ECI in the polling sta...
Here, men tell women who to vote for
Men call the shots in rural Haryana I State has 47% female v...
