Needlestick and Sharps Injuries among Nurses: A Systematic Review of Occupational Safety and Health Practices

Joemmaicca Augustta Joggery, Kamariah Hussein, Siti Fatimah Md. Shariff, Rozila Ibrahim, Zuraida Jorkasi, Aniszahura Abu Salim, Noor Siah Abd Aziz and Zaimatul Ruhaizah Kamarazaman
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Joemmaicca Augustta Joggery: Faculty of Technology and Applied Sciences, Open University Malaysia
Kamariah Hussein: Faculty of Technology and Applied Sciences, Open University Malaysia
Siti Fatimah Md. Shariff: Faculty of Technology and Applied Sciences, Open University Malaysia
Rozila Ibrahim: Faculty of Technology and Applied Sciences, Open University Malaysia
Zuraida Jorkasi: Faculty of Technology and Applied Sciences, Open University Malaysia
Aniszahura Abu Salim: Faculty of Technology and Applied Sciences, Open University Malaysia
Noor Siah Abd Aziz: Faculty of Technology and Applied Sciences, Open University Malaysia
Zaimatul Ruhaizah Kamarazaman: Faculty of Technology and Applied Sciences, Open University Malaysia

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 2025, vol. 9, issue 10, 9727-9734

Abstract: Needlestick and sharps injuries (NSIs) remain one of the most significant occupational hazards among nurses, exposing them to blood-borne pathogens and psychological distress. This systematic review synthesised evidence from 15 empirical and review papers published between 2012 and 2025, focusing on the prevalence, associated factors, knowledge, attitudes, practices (KAP), and occupational safety and health (OSH) measures associated with NSIs among nurses and closely related healthcare groups. A PRISMA-informed process was applied to a comprehensive search across Google Scholar, PubMed, and MEDLINE, which initially identified 1,265 records; following screening and eligibility assessment, 15 studies met inclusion criteria. The included studies, conducted across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, consistently showed that NSIs are highly prevalent, frequently under-reported, and closely linked to gaps in training, inconsistent adherence to standard precautions, and system-level challenges such as weak reporting systems and limited follow-up of exposed workers. Knowledge and awareness of NSI prevention were generally moderate, yet gaps persisted in actual practice, including safe injection behaviours, sharps disposal, incident reporting, and post-exposure management. Only a minority of studies examined structured OSH prevention strategies comprehensively. Overall, the findings highlight the urgent need for multifaceted OSH programs integrating safety-engineered devices, continuous education, strengthened reporting mechanisms, and institutional support to effectively protect nurses.

Date: 2025
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