Sharp Risks in a Time of Crisis: Needle-Stick Injuries in Eastern Sudan Healthcare

Sharp Risks in a Time of Crisis: A Study of Needle-Stick Injuries in Eastern Sudan's Healthcare Sector - A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Needle-stick injuries (NSIs) expose healthcare providers to serious bloodborne infections such as HBV, HCV, and HIV. These injuries are prevalent in Africa and worsened by poor training, limited resources, and systemic issues. In Sudan, the ongoing war has intensified healthcare challenges, increasing NSI risks.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among doctors and nurses in Eastern Sudan using an interview-based questionnaire. Stratified random sampling ensured proportional representation. Data were analyzed using SPSS (p < 0.05). Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained.

Inclusion Criteria:

Doctors who are currently employed and actively working in healthcare facilities such as hospitals and clinics in Kassala and Al Qadarif states, Eastern Sudan.

Nurses who are currently employed and actively working in healthcare facilities such as hospitals and clinics in Kassala and Al Qadarif states, Eastern Sudan.

Healthcare providers who are at risk of needle-stick injuries as part of their routine clinical duties, including procedures involving needles and sharps.

Participants who provide informed consent to take part in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

Non-clinical staff who do not engage in direct patient care or handling of needles and sharps, such as administrative personnel.

Hygienists and other support staff whose job roles do not involve exposure to needle-stick injuries.

Medical students and trainees who are not fully employed healthcare providers within the facilities at the time of the study.

Individuals who do not consent or refuse to participate in the study.