Assessment of Musculoskeletal Injuries Associated with Palpation, Infection Control Practices, and Zoonotic Disease Risks among Utah Clinical Veterinarians.

The research article explores the occupational risks for veterinarians in Utah, particularly focusing on musculoskeletal injuries from large animal interactions, the potential for zoonotic disease transmission, and the safety precautions taken. Based on survey results, the paper reveals a high rate of such injuries and diseases, alongside underutilization of personal protective equipment, prompting a call for more focus on educating veterinarians about these hazards.

Background and Objectives

• The study was prompted by the occupational hazards and risks of zoonotic diseases which veterinarians are exposed to, as well as concerns that these risks are often underestimated by the vets themselves.
• The researchers aimed to better understand these occupational risk factors by examining the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of Utah veterinarians, with a focus on injuries related to large animal palpation practices and zoonotic diseases.

Methods and Participants

• An internet-based survey was sent to a sample of 809 Utah veterinarians identified from 2017 licensure listings provided by the Utah Division of Professional Licensing.
• The survey sought self-reports on issues such as musculoskeletal injuries, instances of zoonotic disease contraction, and personal protective equipment (PPE) use.

Results

• A total of 223 veterinarians, 28% of those surveyed, responded to the survey.
• Out of those respondents, 43 frequently interacted with large animals and consequently reported a high prevalence of joint pain/musculoskeletal injuries.
• Animal-related injuries such as bites, needle-sticks, and cuts were common, and a significant 22% portion also reported contracting a zoonotic disease.
• A surprising finding was that most vets were not appropriately using PPE while examining sick animals or handling potentially infectious materials.

Conclusions and Recommendations

• The study discovers that the less-experienced veterinarians along with those working in clinic-based settings were more likely to score low on precautionary measures, indicating a lack of awareness regarding occupational risks.
• Given the high rates of injury and disease, the researchers advocate for more education on these occupational hazards, particularly on proper PPE use.
• The authors also call for more research to understand the reasons for the low precaution awareness scores and suggest increased monitoring and adjustment of safety practices to minimize injury risk.