Abstract

Objective: To assess Healthcare workers (HCWs) knowledge and experiences with infection prevention and control (IPC) practices and towards occupational exposure in Sierra Leone, after the 2014-2015 Ebola virus disease outbreak, which in turn can be used to identify areas that require additional training. Study Design: A cross-sectional study. Methods: From December 9th to 23rd, 2016, questionnaires contained 45 questions spanning five themes focusing on knowledge and practice and training were administered to all clinical HCWs at the No. 34 Military Hospital, Freetown, Sierra Leone. Main outcome measures are knowledge and practices score on occupational exposure and protection from infectious disease. Results: A total of 190 (86.3%) of 220 questionnaires were completed and returned. More than half of HCWs (52.6%) reported having been injured by medical sharps during an operation or associated work. Knowledge, practice and the degree of training level was significant by occupation or department (P=0.029 and P=0.039, respectively). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the Under Fives Clinic (P = 0.013, OR = 9.874) was a risk factor for sharps injury, while receiving specialized training (P = 0.015, OR = 0.422) was protective. Conclusions: The HCWs at the hospital had insufficient knowledge and practices on occupational exposures and protective measures. The need for more intensive training and establishment of the evaluation systems for occupational exposures are required for the study hospital.