Hani A. Nawafleh, Shalabia El Abozead, Fatma R Mohamed, Amal M Ahmed, Khalil I Altaif and Fakhria J. Muhbes
Background: Needle stick injuries (NSIs) are considered a major problem facing healthcare workers, especially, nursing students who are more vulnerable to the risks of NSIs. The study aims to identify the incidence of NSIs and evaluate its circumstances among university nursing students in four Arab countries. Method: A cross-national study employs a descriptive comparative design. Five universities in four Arab countries, two in Egypt and one each in three Arab countries: Jordan, Iraq, and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) were conducted. Undergraduate nursing students (1,320) from second to fourth year were participated in the study. Selfadministered questionnaire were provided and indicating NSIs at clinical settings; frequency (number, nature and reason); and other circumstances including the places where the NSIs occurred. Results: There were significant relationships indicating that there is a high incidence of NSIs due to lack of knowledge toward needle sticks among university nursing students. Data shows that the students are vulnerable to contracting infections and are at risk. Percentage of those who have been exposed to injury was 40%. About half of the study subjects answered that they did not notify anyone of their NSI experiences. Conclusion: Universities should emphasize on evidencebased regulation and standards of infection control, occupational health and safety, to promote student awareness and prevention of NSIs. Infection control standards and nursing regulatory issues must be inculcated in the training and education programs of nursing students especially in dealing with needle sticks incidents. Nursing students' should undergo mandatory vaccination program prior to enrolment.
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