Needle stick injury prevention training among health care workers in the Caribbean

Background: WHO reports for the Caribbean and Latin America highlights that the proportion of HBV, HCV and HIV infections among health care workers due to occupational sharps injuries is the highest in the world. This study aimed to implement training programs for needle stick injury prevention among health care providers in the Caribbean, in order to reduce occupational exposures to blood borne pathogens while strengthening regional capacity building.

Method: The training program, initially developed by WHO and NIOSH, was adapted and slightly modified by St. George’s University, Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine to make it more appropriate for the region. The workshops included lectures, discussions and policy reviews. Evaluations of safety devices and workplace assessment were also addressed. During the training, baseline data from health care workers on history of needle stick injuries and blood borne pathogen exposure was collected.

Results: Training programs were conducted in the five Caribbean countries of Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and Grenada. One hundred seventy five healthcare workers have been trained, 6 regional healthcare centers have been evaluated and recommendations made for improving safety practices and safety policies. Additionally, health and safety committees have been established in many healthcare institutions. Baseline data revealed more than 40 % of participants reported sustaining sharps injuries.

Conclusion: The regional training contributed to the establishment of a network of health and safety committees as well as an increased awareness and review of policies to meet international standards of practice in the Caribbean.