# Needlestick and Sharp Injury Among Dental Instrument Reprocessing Personnel: Incidence and Reporting Practices in China

## TL;DR

This study found that nearly a quarter of dental instrument reprocessing workers in China experience needlestick injuries, with workload and training practices strongly influencing injury risk and reporting.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into NSI incidence and risk factors specific to dental instrument reprocessing personnel in China, emphasizing the role of workload and training assessment.

## Key findings

- 21.7% of dental instrument reprocessing personnel experienced needlestick injuries in a year.
- Handling more than 1000 instruments daily increased injury risk fivefold.
- Training assessments significantly reduced injury risk and increased injury reporting.

## Abstract

This study aimed to determine needlestick and sharps injuries (NSIs) incidence, identify associated risk factors, and describe reporting practices among dental instrument reprocessing personnel (DIRP) in China.

A nationwide cross-sectional study utilized stratified multistage random sampling across seven Chinese regions. Validated questionnaires were administered to 1942 DIRP from 130 dental facilities, collecting data on demographics, occupational conditions, NSI history, and reporting. Multivariate logistic regression identified independent NSI predictors.

The one-year NSI period incidence was 21.7% (n = 421/1942), with 28.5% of these individuals experiencing multiple injuries. Daily instrument handling volume demonstrated a dose-response relationship with NSI risk (aOR = 5.73, 95% CI: 3.17-10.34, for >1000 vs. ≤100 instruments). The NSI reporting rate was 87.2%. Primary barriers included demanding work schedules (51.9%) and perceived low exposure risk (40.7%). Post-training assessment was significantly associated with a reduced NSI risk (aOR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.51-0.83). Both receiving NSI prevention training (aOR = 3.11) and undergoing post-training assessment (aOR = 2.47) significantly increased NSI reporting.

NSI prevalence among Chinese DIRP is substantial, strongly associated with instrument workload and work experience, and influenced by training assessment. Targeted interventions focusing on workload management, assessed training, and streamlined reporting are essential.

These findings highlight critical areas for improving DIRP safety. Implementing evidence-based workload limits, ensuring training includes competency assessment, and simplifying NSI reporting can reduce preventable injuries and enhance occupational health in dental settings globally.