Purpose: This study documents the effect of comprehensive infectious control education on prevention of percutaneous injuries among medical students. Methods: An anonymous, self-report survey was administered to medical students, prior to graduation in 1999. Data included history of hollow-bore needlesticks, sharps injuries, splashes and human bites. The location, clerkship type, training year and adherence to Infectious Control Protocol was noted. The Class of 2000 will be surveyed after extensive infection control training, including clinical scenarios, handbooks, laminated cards with a 1-800 number and on-call services by Infectious Disease. Results: Class of 1999 response rate was 83% (106/128) with no refusals. 56 (53%) students reported 79 percutaneous incidents, 68% occurring in 3rd year. 56 students (54%) had at least one; 8 students (14%) had one or more incident. The majority of incidents were splashes (36 students had 46 splashes). There were 13 hollow bore needlesticks, 19 sharps incidents, and one bite reported. Incidents occurred in the following settings: 64% in operating room, 25% in delivery room and 21% in-patient. 29 incidents (37%) were reported to no one. 16 (21%) incidents were reported as per Infectious Control Protocol. Post intervention, the Class of 2000 will be surveyed in May. Conclusion: It is evident that medical students are not reporting incidents of needlesticks and exposures to blood/body fluids appropriately. Clearly, there is a need for enhanced education on Infectious Control protocol. Survey results, following the educational events, will be assessed to assist in targeting future areas for injury prevention in medical students.
Learning Objectives: At the end of this session the participant will be able to 1)identify risk factors for percutaneous injuries in medical students 2)reduce the risk of percutaneous injuries to similar populations through educational and behavioral interventions
Keywords: Injury Prevention, Education
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.