Analyzing HBV infection risk arising from PIs among Taiwans HCWs

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Hsueh-Ching Wu, Huei-Ru Huang and Judith Shu-Chu Shiao

Hsin Sheng College of Medical Care and Management, Taiwan
DaYeh University, Taiwan
National Taiwan University, Taiwan

: J Nurs Patient Care

Abstract

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Background & Aim: Taiwan is a high endemic area for Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) with approximately 17% of the public was seropositive for HBV. Because of the high population prevalence of blood-borne viruses such as HBV in Taiwan, Health Care Workers (HCWs) in this country may be facing higher seroconversion occupational risks stemming from Percutaneous Injuries (PIs) compared to other developed countries. The aim of this study was to calculate the incidence rate of HBV high infection risk PIs for Taiwan’s HCWs and to estimate the annual number of HBV seroconversion after high infection risk PIs for those HCWs. Method: This analysis includes data from Chinese EPINet between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2012. Incidence rate was calculated by using the number of the full-time equivalent HCWs in the hospitals which contributed reporting of the HBV high infection risk PIs. The national HCWs number of seroconversion after HBV high infection risk PIs was estimated by incidence rate, the probabilities (12%~31%) of seroconversion in literature review and the numbers of national HCWs in Taiwan. Result: The incidence rate of HBV high infection risk PIs is 0.44/100 FTEs for Taiwan’s HCWs. The annual number HBV seroconversion is estimated to be 11~28 for Taiwan’s HCWs. If consider the underreporting rate, the number may be estimated to be 52~133. Conclusion: The estimated number of HBV seroconversion is a reminder and an alert to all HCWs. It should be provided a comprehensive Hepatitis B vaccine delivery plan for all medical personnel, medical personnel and support workers, to enhance immunity and reduce occupational injuries.

Biography

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Hsueh-Ching Wu has completed her PhD from National Taiwan University. She is currently working as an Assistant Professor at Department of Nursing, Shin Sheng Junior College of Medical Care and Management, Taiwan.

E-mail: whc06082002@yahoo.com.tw