Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Occupational blood exposure is a major concern for the hospital staff. Aims &
Objective: To assess the prevalence and pattern of occupational blood exposure among resident doctors.
Materials and Methods: This was a cross sectional study carried out on Resident doctors in a tertiary care hospital in the city of Mumbai. Statistical analysis was done using proportions and chi square.
Results: 112 out of 273 resident doctors (41%) had an occupational exposure in the past 1 year. Among the exposed 57(51%) had more than 1 exposure. The number of exposures per person per year is 2.08. Maximum number of exposures was of the percutaneous type. 40% of exposures occurred during operative procedures. 40 out of 112 residents underwent laboratory investigations and 34 were started on post exposure. Conclusion: Occurrence of occupational exposure is a common phenomenon. Prevention of injuries is prophylaxis. Out of 273 residents 205 had taken 3 or more Hepatitis B vaccination, an integral part of prevention program at any work place. Training is an integral part of prevention program at any work place. Training of resident doctors should be undertaken at regular basis. Newer innovations in the technique of use of sharps should be devised so as to reduce the risk of exposure.