Blood and Body Fluid Exposures among Medical and Nursing Students: Prevalence, Correlates, and Exposure Management

2002 | Annals of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada

Program(s): Clinical Education & Training |

Abstract:

Background: We describe the prevalence of clincially significant blood and body fluid exposures (CSE) among medical and nursing students, the actions taken by the students, and correlates of the exposures. Methods: Data were collected in a cross-sectional survey of second- and third-year medical students (N=159) and of fourth-year nursing students (N=169) at the University of Calgary. Three mailings were set to the medical students. Questionnaires were handed out to nursing students in class by instructers on two occasions, and returned to the investigators by mail. Results: The response rate was 48.5 per cent. Most respondents (155/159) had done clinical rotations. Of the 155, 20 (12.9 per cent) had incurred one or more CSE. Of the 20 students, 19 incurred exposures while in Canada, and two while doing international electives. None sought drug therapies, six had themselves tested for blood-borne infection, and five requested source testing. Seven persons (neither of those exposed while abroad) reported the exposure. The three most common reasons for failure to report were: exposures perceived to be insignificant, source not perceived to be infectious, and student had been vaccinated against hepatitis B. Students exposed during international electives also did not report because they perceived that antiretroviral drugs were unavailable. Interpretation: CSE are common and under-reported. There is a need for improved early and continuing education, prevention and correct management of CSE, and development of policies for international electives.

BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS

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Blood and Body Fluid Exposures among Medical and Nursing Students: Prevalence, Correlates, and Exposure Management

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