Abstract

Occupational exposures are relatively common among HCWs. The risk of seroconversion following occupational exposures among HCWs may be reduced by knowledge of and accessing occupational post exposure prophylaxis (PEP). In addition, practising universal guidelines may greatly reduce HCW occupational exposures. The aim of this study was to explore HCWs’ access to PEP and their perception of occupational HIV risk exposure and practice of universal precautions. The study was done in two phases using qualitative methods in the first phase and quantitative methods in the second phase. Results from the survey show that 36 % (n=122) had experienced an occupational exposure to HIV in the past 12 months of which most (52%) were females. However, only 28% of those who experienced an occupational injury reported the injury to authorities within their respective workplaces. Most (78%) of all occupational exposures were needle stick injuries. Qualitative data shows that most respondents did not report occupational exposures for fear that they will be asked to go for an HIV test. Lack of knowledge of PEP, fear of stigma and unavailability of PEP in most study sites were the major challenges to access PEP. There was inconsistent practice of universal precautions amongst most respondents. For example, 56% (n=126) reported that they always wash their hands before and after attending to a patient; 64% (n=126) indicated that they always put on closed shoes when they are on duty. Lack of protective materials and heavy work load were some of the major barriers to HCW practicing universal precautions. In conclusion, the study has shown that HCWs in Mchinji continue to face challenges to access PEP and practice universal precautions. There is need to address the human resource crisis in the health sector to reduce the work load in most facilities. Supervision of HCW practice of universal precautions should be ongoing in all facilities. There is need to decentralise PEP services to health centres and for 24 hour PEP services in all facilities. Providers of PEP services should respect and promote confidentiality so that 8HCWs can report occupational injuries and access PEP without restraint. The Health Belief Model and the symbolic interactionism theory can help in designing programmes for HCWs to promote their access to PEP and practice of universal precautions.

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School	: School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Issued Date	: 2008

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