An exploratory study of needlestick injuries among Australian prison officers

Abstract

Prison officers face multiple occupational hazards including needlestick injuries, which may result in the transmission of blood‐borne viral infections. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of needlestick injuries, the circumstances under which needlestick injuries occur and the responses of injured prison officers. Cross‐sectional data were collected from prison officers in two Australian jurisdictions between January and May 2006, using a self‐report questionnaire. Descriptive analyses were conducted. Of 246 prison officers who completed the survey, two‐thirds had found needles and syringes in the workplace. Seventeen officers (7%) reported having experienced a needlestick injury. Most injuries occurred during searches. Serological testing for blood‐borne viral infections following injury was common, but less than half the injured officers accessed support services. Needlestick injuries appear to be a relatively rare occurrence, but may be further reduced by improving search techniques and equipment and regulating needles and syringes in prisons.

Citation

Larney, S. and Dolan, K. (2008), "An exploratory study of needlestick injuries among Australian prison officers", International Journal of Prisoner Health, Vol. 4 No. 3, pp. 164-168. https://doi.org/10.1080/17449200802264720