Background of the Study
Occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens is a significant risk for healthcare workers, particularly nurses who are frequently in direct contact with blood and other potentially infectious materials. Bloodborne pathogens such as HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C can be transmitted through needlestick injuries, cuts, and contact with mucous membranes or open wounds. The consequences of such exposures can be severe, leading to chronic infections, long-term health complications, and even death if not managed properly.
In healthcare settings, nurses are at an increased risk due to their proximity to patients and involvement in procedures such as intravenous injections, blood draws, and wound care. The University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH) is one of the largest healthcare providers in Nigeria, offering a wide range of medical services, including those with a higher risk of occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Effective prevention and management strategies, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), adherence to infection control protocols, and prompt post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), are essential to protect nurses and other healthcare workers from these risks.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the established guidelines and preventive measures, nurses are still exposed to bloodborne pathogens due to inadequate training, inconsistent adherence to infection control protocols, and insufficient resources. The University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, being a high-volume facility, has a considerable number of nurses working in potentially high-risk areas. It is crucial to investigate the role of nurses in the prevention and management of occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens in this setting, in order to improve their safety and health outcomes.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses working in high-risk areas at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, such as emergency units, surgery, and the laboratory. Limitations include the potential for recall bias and the inability to capture all possible risk factors due to the scope being confined to one institution.
Definition of Terms
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