Occupational Injuries and Their Determinants Among Healthcare Workers in Western Countries: A Scoping Review.

BACKGROUND

Healthcare workers (HCWs) in developed countries can be exposed to a wide range of hazards. The systematic identification of working conditions associated with the risk of occupational injury can significantly reduce this risk.

METHODS

From January 2000 to December 2021, a scoping review was performed using PCC (Population, Concept, and Context) criteria and searching major scientific databases. Studies conducted in Western Countries, defined as member countries of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), were selected.

RESULTS

We identified 282 studies for the present review. Studies focused more frequently on biological injuries (59%). Musculoskeletal injuries and injuries due to aggression and violence followed, based on the frequency of the investigated topic.

CONCLUSIONS

Most studies focused on the risk of bloodborne infections, while a knowledge gap emerged on the epidemiology of accidental exposure to other transmission pathways. Although the proportion of injured workers is not negligible in most studies, the most common determinants and risk factors of injury are entirely preventable.