Sharp injuries in the operative room among residents in surgical specialties: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background and Objective: Surgical residents are at high risk of sustaining sharp injuries. Our aim is to identify predisposing factors of sustaining sharp injuries in operating rooms among surgical residents and their attitudes and behaviors in dealing with sharp injuries. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a random sampling technique was adopted to recruit a representative sample of surgical residents who were involved in operative procedures in King Abdulaziz University Hospital. Data were collected between September and December 2016 by completing a self-administered questionnaire on attitude toward the most recent sharp injuries, predisposing factors for sharp injuries, and practice of universal precautions during the surgical procedures. Results: Among the 78 recruited residents, 46 (58.9%) had sharp injuries during surgical procedures. Most of the injuries (60%) were self-induced, and (72.9%) of the injuries took place while suturing. Twenty (43.5%) of those who had injuries did not report any injury, 15 (32.6%) reported some, and 11 (23.9%) claim that they reported all their sharp injuries. 44.9% of the participants are fully aware of sharp injuries local policy and procedures in the hospital. Most of the injured participants during surgeries did not follow each step of the local sharp injury policy. The perceived causes of sharp injuries among the participants were due to rushed (61.1%), fatigue (43%), lack of skills (19.4%), lack of assistance (15.3%), lack of sleep (13.9%) and (16.7%) though it is not preventable. 55.1% of all participants have never participated in any sharp-related safety training. 10.2% practiced all three universal precautions of double-gloving, face shields, and hands-free technique. Conclusions: Sharp injuries are common among the surgical residents but are not reported by most of them. Target training about sharp injuries during residency may improve their attitude and behavior toward prevention of sharp injuries in the operative room.