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. 2025 Jun 8;22(6):912.
doi: 10.3390/ijerph22060912.

Prevalence and Contributing Factors of Occupational Injuries Among Nurses in Oshakati District, Namibia

Maliwa Lichaha Sanjobo  1 , Mpinane Flory Senekane  1 , Kgomotso Lebelo  2
Affiliations

Prevalence and Contributing Factors of Occupational Injuries Among Nurses in Oshakati District, Namibia

Maliwa Lichaha Sanjobo et al. Int J Environ Res Public Health. .

Abstract

Occupational injuries among nurses impact their well-being and health service delivery. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of occupational injuries and their contributing factors among nurses in selected public health facilities. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 295 randomly selected nurses. Primary data were collected using self-administered questionnaires, while secondary data were abstracted from the occupational injuries register. Data were analysed using statistical software. The 12-month prevalence of occupational injuries was 28.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 24.3-33.3%), with needlestick injuries being the most common (63.5%). Significant associations were observed between occupational injuries and education level (p = 0.027), employment status (p = 0.012), and years of experience (p = 0.029). Nurses with a bachelor's degree had 3.30 times higher odds of injury (Adjusted OR [AOR] = 3.30, 95% CI = 1.11-9.81, p = 0.03), while the lack of proper training increased the odds by 3.27 times (AOR = 3.27, 95% CI = 1.62-6.61, p < 0.001). Being a registered nurse reduced the odds by 70% (AOR = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.12-0.74, p = 0.01). Addressing these factors is essential for reducing occupational injuries and improving healthcare outcomes.

Keywords: Namibia; health workers; nurses; occupational injuries; prevalence.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Public health facilities in Oshakati District [25].
Figure 2
Figure 2
(a,b). Respondents’ injury experience and types of occupational injuries among respondents.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Distribution of injuries by department.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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