Prevalence and Associated Factors of Needlestick and Sharp Injuries Among Healthcare Workers in a Tertiary Care Hospital, Mogadishu, Somalia: A Prospective Single-Center Study

Abstract

Background

Needlestick and sharp injuries (NSSIs) represent a major occupational hazard for healthcare workers (HCWs), posing serious health risks and psychological stress. Globally, millions of HCWs experience such injuries each year, with the burden disproportionately higher in low-resource settings. In postconflict regions like Somalia, these challenges are often intensified due to strained healthcare systems and limited resources. Despite the potential severity of the issue, there is a lack of comprehensive data on its prevalence and determinants in such contexts. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of NSSIs and identify associated risk factors among HCWs at a tertiary care hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 333 randomly selected HCWs from April to July 2024. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering demographics, occupational factors, safety practices and perceptions, and 12-month recall of NSSIs events. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with NSSIs.

Results

Although age was not a statistically significant factor (p = 0.1548), the highest prevalence of NSSIs was observed among HCWs aged 25–40 years (75.52%). In the multivariable analysis, perceiving a moderate risk of injury emerged as a significant predictor of NSSI occurrence (AOR = 4.26, 95% CI: 2.00–9.10). Conversely, caring for more than 10 patients/day was associated with reduced odds of experiencing an injury (AOR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.21–0.88).

Conclusion

This study highlights significant associations between sex, education level, and the prevalence of NSSIs among HCWs at the surveyed tertiary hospital. These findings underscore the need for targeted, evidence-based interventions to mitigate NSSI risks—particularly in postconflict, resource-constrained healthcare settings like Somalia. Strengthening training, improving safety practices, and addressing occupational disparities can contribute to safer working environments for HCWs in similar contexts.