Prevalence and Associated Factors of Needlestick and Sharp Injuries Among Healthcare Workers in a Tertiary Care Hospital, Mogadishu, Somalia: A Prospective Single-Center Study.

Background: Needlestick and sharp injuries (NSSIs) represent a major occupational hazard for healthcare workers (HCWs), posing serious health risks and psychological stress. Globally, millions of HCWs experience such injuries each year, with the burden disproportionately higher in low-resource settings. In postconflict regions like Somalia, these challenges are often intensified due to strained healthcare systems and limited resources. Despite the potential severity of the issue, there is a lack of comprehensive data on its prevalence and determinants in such contexts. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of NSSIs and identify associated risk factors among HCWs at a tertiary care hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 333 randomly selected HCWs from April to July 2024. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering demographics, occupational factors, safety practices and perceptions, and 12-month recall of NSSIs events. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with NSSIs. Results: Although age was not a statistically significant factor ( Conclusion: This study highlights significant associations between sex, education level, and the prevalence of NSSIs among HCWs at the surveyed tertiary hospital. These findings underscore the need for targeted, evidence-based interventions to mitigate NSSI risks-particularly in postconflict, resource-constrained healthcare settings like Somalia. Strengthening training, improving safety practices, and addressing occupational disparities can contribute to safer working environments for HCWs in similar contexts.