An audit of animal-related injuries at UK veterinary schools: 2009-2018

Tulloch, John ORCID: 0000-0003-2150-0090, Fleming, Kate ORCID: 0000-0002-6572-5016, Pinchbeck, Gina ORCID: 0000-0002-5671-8623, Forster, Julie, Lowe, Walter and Westgarth, Carri ORCID: 0000-0003-0471-2761 (2023) An audit of animal-related injuries at UK veterinary schools: 2009-2018. The Veterinary Record, 193 (7). e3171-.

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Abstract

Background: Animal-related injuries pose a significant risk to the veterinary profession. This study aimed to describe the incidence, demographics, context and consequences of animal-related injuries at UK veterinary schools. Methods: A multicentre audit of accident records (2009–2018) across five UK veterinary schools was performed. Injury rates were stratified by school, demographics and species. The context and cause of the injury were described. Multivariable logistic models explored factors associated with medical treatment, hospital visits and time off work. Results: An annual rate of 2.60 (95% confidence interval 2.48–2.72) injuries per 100 graduating students was calculated, varying between veterinary schools. Injuries were more frequently recorded in staff than students, and there were significant differences between staff and students in the activities performed preceding injury. Cats and dogs were associated with the highest number of reported injuries. However, injuries associated with cattle and horses were the most severe, with significantly higher hospital attendances and more time off work taken. Limitations: Data were based on reported injuries and likely underestimate the true injury rate. The population at risk was hard to quantify as population size and exposure were variable. Conclusion: Further research is recommended to explore the clinical and workplace management, including recording culture, of animal-related injuries among veterinary professionals.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Animals, Cattle, Dogs, Cats, Horses, Humans, Athletic Injuries, Cat Diseases, Cattle Diseases, Dog Diseases, Horse Diseases, Students, Schools, Veterinary, United Kingdom
Divisions:	Faculty of Health and Life Sciences Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences
Depositing User:	Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited:	01 Jun 2023 07:45
Last Modified:	24 Oct 2023 16:39
DOI:	10.1002/vetr.3171
Related URLs:	Author Publisher
URI:	https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3170769