Assess Knowledge and Practice of Veterinary Health Care Workers regarding Physical, Chemical and Biological Hazards

Abstract

Background: Veterinarians healthcare workers who interact with animals daily encounter an elevated risk of exposure to both known and as-yet-undiscovered microbial agents. Additionally, they are also exposed to physical, chemical, and environmental hazards. Aim: This study was conducted to assess knowledge and practice of veterinary health care workers regarding physical, chemical, and biological hazards. Research design: A descriptive design used to conduct this study. Setting: The study conducted at 50% Veterinary Health Units (8units) which will be selected randomly from the total number of all units (16 units) in Benha City. Sample: Convenience sample of 70 veterinary health care workers used in this study. Tools: Two tools were used; First tool: A structured interviewing questionnaire and consists of three parts: Part 1: (A): Socio demographic characteristics of veterinary health care workers; (B): Work characteristics of veterinary health care workers; Part 2: Concerned with veterinary health care workers past exposure to physical, chemical, and biological hazards. Part 3: Concerned with veterinary health care workers' knowledge about health hazards related to working in veterinary health care units; Second tool: Observational checklist sheet to assess; Part I: Veterinary health care workers' practices regarding prevention of health hazards. Part II: Environmental condition of veterinary health care unit. Results: This study revealed that, Exposure to Physical Hazards: 91.4% reported being bitten or scratched by animals, and 84.3% experienced back pain due to work-related stress, Chemical Hazards: 81.4% were exposed to formalin and inhaled anesthetic gases, and 74.3% suffered from skin or eye infections caused by chemical exposure, Biological Hazards: 91.4% faced allergies from animal hair or fur, and 82.9% were exposed to zoonotic diseases, 10.0% of healthcare workers demonstrated good knowledge about health hazards, only 17.1% of workers practiced level about health hazards. Conclusion: It was concluded that a statistically significant was observed in the knowledge and practices of veterinary healthcare workers. This significant reflects the results of the assessment conducted. The findings highlight the value of regular evaluation in maintaining professional standards. Recommendations: Health Education program for all veterinary health care workers regarding preventive measures of physical, chemical, and biological health hazards.