Analysis of factors associated with hepatitis B and C exposure and reporting patterns among healthcare workers in a tertiary care facility: a cross-sectional study.

Abstract

To assess the prevalence of occupational exposure to hepatitis B and C, examine exposure reporting patterns and identify associated factors among healthcare workers (HCWs) in a military hospital in Ghana. Analytical cross-sectional study. A 500-bed tertiary military healthcare facility in Accra, Ghana. A total of 369 HCWs were selected using stratified random sampling and completed a structured questionnaire. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 369 respondents. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted using STATA V.17. Proportions, ORs and corresponding 95% CIs were calculated, with a significance level set at 0.05. Primary outcomes were the prevalence of occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens (hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV)) and the rate of reporting these exposures. In the 12 months prior to the study, 20.1% of HCWs reported exposure to HBV or HCV. Exposures were more common during weekdays (60.8%) and afternoon shifts (47.3%). Only 37.8% of exposure incidents were reported. Male HCWs were more likely to report exposures than females (OR 82.5, 95% CI 2.5 to 273). Diploma holders were less likely to report compared with degree holders (OR 0, 95% CI 0 to 0.3). The study demonstrates that HCWs in the military health facility face a significant risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens, yet under-reporting remains high. Strengthened training, clear reporting systems and supportive workplace policies are urgently needed to address these gaps and safeguard both staff and patient safety.