Knowledge and attitudes on needlestick and sharps injury prevention among healthcare workers at Hai Phong International general Hospital

Abstract

Objective: To describe the knowledge and attitudes toward sharp object exposure prevention among healthcare workers at Hai Phong International General Hospital in 2025. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 353 healthcare workers from March to May 2025 using convenience sampling. A structured questionnaire included 16 knowledge questions (total score 25) and 22 attitude items. Adequate knowledge and a positive attitude were defined as scores >60% of the total possible score. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, and mean ± standard deviation. Results: Healthcare workers aged ≤30 years accounted for 58.6%; 72.2% were female, and 75.4% had a university degree or higher. A significant gap was observed between high theoretical knowledge (94.9%) and moderate positive attitudes (53.0%). No participant achieved a perfect score in the “preventive measures” knowledge domain (0%). The main perceived barriers were staff shortages (46.1%) and patients’ lack of cooperation (39.9%). Conclusion: Healthcare workers demonstrated high knowledge but a relatively low level of positive attitude toward needlestick and sharps injury prevention. The hospital should strengthen training, communication, and staffing support to improve occupational safety practices