Abstract
BACKGROUND: Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at risk of acquiring blood-borne infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and human immunodeficiency virus through needlestick injuries (NSIs). We aimed to investigate the prevalence of needlestick injuries and other related indicators among HCWs in Iran through a systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS: We searched various databases until the end of May 2023 for studies reporting the prevalence of NSIs among healthcare workers in Iran. We used a random model with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to analyse the data and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tool to evaluate the quality of included studies. We conducted and reported the study according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. RESULTS: We included 87 studies in the analysis and found that 47% (95% CI = 42-52, I(2) = 98.9%) of Iranian HCWs experienced NSI. NSIs were most frequently related to syringe needles (58%; 95% CI = 52-65, I(2) = 96.8%) and most often caused by recapping (30%; 95% CI = 22-38, I(2) = 98.5%). In this study, 56% (95% CI = 45-67, I(2) = 98.6%) of HCWs with NSIs did not report their injury. Moreover, the prevalence of NSIs the highest in the morning shift (0.44; 95% CI = 0.36-0.53, I(2) = 97.2%), emergency unit (0.20; 95% CI = 0.16-0.24, I(2) = 93.7%), and intensive care unit (0.20; 95% CI = 0.16-0.24, I(2) = 94.3%). CONCLUSIONS: To reduce the high prevalence of NSIs, HCWs, especially those in emergency departments, should use safety equipment. Healthcare managers should provide a calm and stress-free environment for HCWs, educate them on safety principles and standards, and support experienced HCWs with NSIs.