Knowledge, attitude and practices regarding needle stick injury among medical and nursing interns in a tertiary care hospital in India

Background: Needle stick injury (NSI) is one of the most potential hazards for health care workers. They pose a significant risk of occupational transmission of blood borne pathogens. This study was conducted with the objectives to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices regarding needle-stick Injury among medical and nursing interns in a tertiary care hospital. Methods: A total of 218 medical and nursing interns were invited to participate in the study and a predesigned, self-structured questionnaire was distributed amongst them. Results: A total of 216 participants completed the questionnaire. Knowledge regarding diseases transmitted through needle stick injuries was high in both the groups (>97%). Nursing interns were significantly more likely to perceive consistent adherence to safety protocols in their departments compared to medical interns (p=0.04). Nursing interns experienced a significantly higher proportion of needle stick injuries in the preceding year compared to interns (p=0.03). Reporting of NSIs was also significantly higher among nursing interns (p=0.04). Conclusions: No significant knowledge gap was identified between medical and nursing interns. Nursing interns, however, observed better safety protocols. Despite sharing the same environment, nursing interns reported a higher incidence of needle stick injuries within the preceding year.