Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens and Protective Practices Among Laboratory Scientists in Kano State Hospitals, North West Nigeria

This study evaluates occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens and the adequacy of universal precaution practices among laboratory scientists in Kano State public hospitals, North West Nigeria. Laboratory scientists in haematology and blood bank settings face significant occupational risks from needlestick injuries and mucosal exposures to blood and body fluids, and systematic assessment of exposure rates and safety culture is essential for intervention design. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 200 laboratory scientists at eight hospitals in Kano metropolis. A structured questionnaire assessed frequency of exposures, types of protective equipment used, adherence to standard precautions, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) availability, and training history. Fifty-four percent of respondents reported at least one needlestick or sharps injury in the preceding 12 months. Among those experiencing occupational exposures, only 43 percent sought formal post-exposure assessment, and PEP was received by 28 percent of exposed individuals. Glove use was universal, but face shield and gown compliance was below 40 percent for most procedures. Hepatitis B vaccination coverage among scientists was 72 percent. Staff with fewer than three years of experience had significantly higher exposure rates. The study recommends mandatory annual biosafety refresher training, procurement of safety-engineered devices, accessible 24-hour PEP protocols, and mandatory hepatitis B vaccination for all unvaccinated laboratory staff in Kano State. Keywords: occupational exposure, bloodborne pathogens, laboratory scientists, post-exposure prophylaxis, Kano State.