Abstract:
Nurses are exposed to high levels of occupational hazards. The researcher had a question as to whether nurses have knowledge on the work-related risks to which they are exposed, for them to be able to prevent and manage these risks accordingly.
The study focused on the following objectives:
- To determine the extent of the knowledge on occupational hazards amongst registered nurses in the Onandjokwe Health District.
- To determine the extend to which registered nurses practice occupational safety.
- To identify strategies that are in place dealing with occupational safety. A quantitative research design utilizing a survey by means of questionnaires was used. The population of the study consisted of a randomly selected registered nurses who were in direct contact with patients. The results indicated that a significant number of registered nurses have knowledge on occupational hazards, although there are a few numbers which have insufficient knowledge on occupational hazards. Registered nurses also try to practice occupational safety but the restrictions such as non-availability of facilities prevent them from the safety practices. The study also revealed that information on occupational hazards/safety and support is provided to some nurses but not to all of them. There are only some guidelines/strategies in place for occupational hazards/safety although not all the nurses are aware about them. Recommendations based on this study include regular trainings and educational meetings to enhance occupational safety, develop/introduce policies and guidelines or strategies on all aspects related to occupational hazards/safety.
