Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of needle stick and sharp injuries (NSSIs) and identify factors influencing underreporting of NSSIs among health care workers (HCWs) in the last 3 years.
Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted from April to May 2025 using a convenience sample of 397 nurses at Prince Sultan Military Medical City (PSMMC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected through an electronic self-administered questionnaire covering NSSIs’ experience, reporting practices, and perceived barriers based on the health belief model (HBM).
Results: The prevalence of NSSIs within the past three years was 13%, with 8% occurring in the last year. Alarmingly, 49% of these injuries were not reported. The NSSIs’ experience was significantly associated with receiving updates on reporting protocols, awareness of the PSMMC reporting system, and negative perceptions such as fear of employment consequences, futility of reporting, and time constraints. Reporting behaviors were also linked to greater confidence in the reporting process and a perceived need for further training. Key barriers to reporting included fear of blame (29%), lack of time (27%), and complexity of the reporting system (13%).
Conclusion: Underreporting of NSSIs among HCWs at PSMMC is a persistent issue. Targeted strategies such as simplifying reporting procedures, promoting a supportive reporting culture, and enhancing staff training are critical to improving reporting rates and ensuring a safer work environment for HCWs.

Key words: Underreporting, reporting practice, needle stick and sharp injuries, health belief model, Saudi Arabia