Factors associated with occupational exposure to biological material among nursing professionals

Rev Bras Enferm. 2017 Jan-Feb;70(1):133-138. doi: 10.1590/0034-7167-2016-0472.
[Article in Portuguese, English]

Abstract

Objective:: to identify factors associated with occupational exposure to biological material among nursing professionals.

Method:: a cross-sectional study was conducted in a high complexity hospital of a city in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Nursing professionals were interviewed from March to November 2015. All ethical aspects were observed.

Result:: among the 226 professionals interviewed, 17.3% suffered occupational exposure to potentially contaminated biological material, with 61.5% being percutaneous. Factors such as age (p=0.003), professional experience in nursing (p=0.015), and experience at the institution (p=0.032) were associated with the accidents with biological material.

Conclusion:: most accidents with biological material among nursing professionals were percutaneous. Age, professional experience, and experience at the institution were considered factors associated with occupational exposure.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Brazil
  • Chi-Square Distribution
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Hazardous Substances / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nurses / statistics & numerical data*
  • Occupational Exposure / adverse effects*
  • Occupational Exposure / statistics & numerical data
  • Surveys and Questionnaires

Substances

  • Hazardous Substances