There are an estimated 385,000 accidental needlestick injuries (NSI) of healthcare workers annually in the United States [1]. 16,000 healthcare workers are exposed to HIV through needlestick injuries annually, with even more having exposure to hepatitis B and C [1]. The seroconversion rate for HIV after a single percutaneous exposure has been estimated by the CDC to be approximately 0.3%, hepat...

The effects of argon laser light on endotracheal tubes and gas mixtures have been studied. In recommended use accidental exposure to red rubber and PVC tubes caused minimal damage. Prolonged exposure of PVC tubing and a 2:1 nitrous oxide:oxygen mixture produced a minimal increase in temperature and no detectable increase in the concentration of higher oxides of nitrogen. Transparent endotrachea...

BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the most contagious blood borne pathogen. The risk of occupational exposure to HBV among health care workers is a major concern, especially medical trainees. In this study we describe the knowledge of risk factors for HBV infection, history of accidental exposure to blood, awareness of HBV vaccine and the vaccination status among medical students in Cameroo...