KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICES ABOUT VIRAL HEPATITIS IN BLOOD BANK STAFF AT A TERTIARY CARE TRANSFUSION

Abstract

Objective: To assess the knowledge and practices of blood bank staff regarding hepatitis B and C infection at a tertiary
care hospital in Islamabad.
Material and Methods: This cross sectional descriptive study was carried out in Blood bank at P.I.M.S , Islamabad. A
questionnaire was designed to assess the knowledge, and practice of blood bank staff regarding hepatitis B and C.
There were 37 workers in blood bank, working in 24 hour shifts. Blood bank staff was interviewed. The findings were
recorded and results were drawn accordingly.
Results: Out of 37 , 27 (72%) participants considered hepatitis B and C as serious and fatal disease of the liver while
10 (28%) of participants had no idea of hepatitis.35 (94 %)of the participants had a adequate knowledge of sources
of transmission of viral hepatitis. About 20 (55%) of the participants knew about screening tests and the use of immunoglobulin
after getting prick with infected syringes, while 17 (45%) were unaware of it. Only 12 (33%) subjects were
in the habit of using gloves while handling blood products and carrying out phlebotomy procedures, while 25 (77%)
of staff was not practicing any preventive measures. 10 (27% ) participants had a history of needle-stick injuries. Out
of them ,8 (80 %) got their hepatitis status checked, got anti viralimmuno globulins and received vaccination, while
remaining 2 (20%) did not screen themselves nor bothered to get vaccinated.19 (51%) of the participants were vaccinated
against hepatitis B. 2(6%) of the participants were hepatitis C positive and they had a positive history of multiple
pricks with needles.
Conclusion: Blood bank staff had adequate knowledge of hepatitis and risks of transmission. Despite having good
knowledge, their practice while handling blood products and carrying out donations is not satisfactory. Therefore ,
blood bank staff should be motivated and trained to practice safe and preventive measures while handling phlebotomy
procedures and blood products.