Objective:

This study describes the research regarding injuries by surgical tools and the precautions to be undertaken in the event of such an injury. The study was conducted at the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Turkey, Istanbul (Fatih) Institution of Public Hospitals Province of Istanbul Association of Public Hospitals General Secretary, Istanbul Research and Education Hospital. The study aims to enhance professional safety programs in this regard.

Methods:

From March to April 2014, 200 nurses from different clinics were personally met. These volunteers answered 19 questions from the data collection form. The survey responses were analyzed. Proportional data was statistically analyzed using a chi-square test.

Results:

It was determined that 59% of volunteers (118 volunteers) experienced injuries from contaminated surgical or medical tools, and in 54% of these cases (64 volunteers), the injury occurred while putting the cap on a syringe needle. Only 6% (7 volunteers) of those injured by surgical or medical tools were reported. Moreover, 91% of volunteers (182 volunteers) answered that they had been vaccinated against hepatitis B. To prevent such injuries, 36% of volunteers recommended that workers should be given periodic and in-depth educational programs.

Conclusion:

We conclude that majority of nurses are vaccinated against hepatitis B. Moreover, although there are a high number of injury cases, a very small number of these cases are reported. In light of the information obtained in this study, it is probable that the use of safe medical tools and periodic educational programs that teach precautionary measures can reduce the number of injuries.

Keywords: Health workers, injury by surgical/potentially dangerous medical tools, environmental precautions, safety of health workers