Occupational risks and hepatitis B vaccination status of dental auxiliaries in Nigeria

ABSTRACT

To assess the occupational exposure to needlestick and sharps injuries and hepatitis B vaccination status among dental auxiliaries. A descriptive cross-sectional survey of 83 dental auxiliaries was conducted that included 12 technologists, 11 therapists, 53 nurses/surgical assistants, and 7 record officers. The survey included demography, history of needlestick and sharps injury, hepatitis B vaccination, knowledge and attitude towards HIV-infected patients, and the dental auxiliaries' information needs on HIV-related issues. Of the 83 dental auxiliaries, 34 [41%] had experienced needlestick and sharps injury in the last 12 months. At the time of the study, only 43 [51.8%] had been immunized against hepatitis B. 62 [74.7%] of the respondents thought that it was easier to contract HIV than hepatitis B through needlestick in a dental clinic. 21 [25.3%] would not assist dentists treating HIV-positive patients. However, 76 [91.6%], a majority, agreed that they needed more information on HIV-related issues, with 59 [71.1%] specifying a single area of need and 17 [20.5%] more than one area of need. The single areas of need specified in descending order were infection control [n=22, 26.5%], HIV counseling [n=12, 14.5%], oral manifestations of HIV/AIDS [n=11, 13.3%], postexposure prophylaxis [n=9, 10.8%], and antiretroviral therapy [n=5, 6.0%]. The data from this survey underscore the urgent need for educational interventions to encourage safe work practices. Hepatitis B vaccination, HIV-related knowledge and proper postexposure prophylaxis are needed to prevent occupational transmission of blood-borne viruses