FATORES DE RISCO ASSOCIADOS AO ABANDONO DO ACOMPANHAMENTO APÓS ACIDENTES COM MATERIAL BIOLÓGICO

Abstract

Introduction: Occupational accidents in healthcare involve various risk factors, with biological risk standing out due to frequent contact with biological materials and sharp instruments. Blood is the fluid with the highest potential for transmitting HIV and hepatitis B and C. Post-exposure follow-up is essential, but many professionals abandon it, compromising epidemiological surveillance and the adoption of effective preventive measures. This study analyzed factors associated with the abandonment of follow-up after occupational exposure in a hospital in the Midwest of Brazil. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective, observational, and analytical epidemiological study. Data were collected from professionals who spontaneously sought care at the "Professora Esterina Corsini" HDIA Hospital between 2010 and 2023, using records from the "Biological Risk Project" stored in the REDCap system. Healthcare professionals aged ≥18 years exposed to blood or potentially contaminated fluids were included, excluding those whose exposure was non-occupational. Results: A total of 1,305 exposed professionals were evaluated between 2010 and 2023. Follow-up abandonment was 28%, being higher among professionals with more experience (37%), exposure to an unknown source patient (41%), use of PEP (40%), and complete hepatitis B vaccination (83%). Nursing staff and laboratory technicians had the highest number of exposures and abandonment rates. Discussion and Conclusion: The abandonment rate was lower than in other studies. Early-career professionals showed lower abandonment, suggesting higher motivation. Institutional strategies should reinforce adherence to follow-up, including improved case reporting, psychosocial support, and educational campaigns to reduce occupational infection risks and protect healthcare workers.