RESUMO
AIMS: The aims of this study were to determine the frequency of needle stick injury (NSI) in general practice, to determine what measures were being taken to protect against needle stick injury, and to gather other information regarding work practices, risk perception, and knowledge of transmission. METHODS: A postal survey was undertaken of all general practitioners and one practice nurse per practice address in selected areas of New Zealand. RESULTS: The response rate was 82%. An incidence rate of 22 needle stick injuries in 100 health care workers per 6 month period was found. For general practitioners alone the incidence rate was 25 in 100 per 6 month period and for practice nurses it was 17 in 100 per 6 month period. Recommended precautionary measures were not being followed by most individuals. CONCLUSIONS: Needle stick injury is a substantial problem in general practice and exposes general practitioners and practice nurses to a serious risk of infection from bloodborne transmissible agents. All patients should be considered to pose a potentially high risk of infection and recommended precautionary measures should be followed at all times.
