Exposure to hepatitis B virus, post-exposure prophylaxis knowledge, and related factors among healthcare workers in a tertiary care military facility in Ghana: A cross-sectional analytical study

Background: Healthcare workers are at increased risk of exposure to hepatitis B virus due to occupational hazards. Adequate knowledge and adherence to post-exposure prophylaxis protocols are crucial in minimizing HBV transmission. This study assessed hepatitis B exposure, knowledge of post-exposure prophylaxis management, and associated factors among healthcare workers in a tertiary healthcare facility in southern Ghana. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 369 healthcare workers using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using STATA version 17, with descriptive and inferential statistics, including logistic regression, used to identify factors associated with hepatitis B exposure and post-exposure prophylaxis knowledge. Results: The prevalence of occupational HBV exposure was 18.7 %, with male healthcare workers experiencing higher exposure (53.6 %) than females (46.4 %). Knowledge of hepatitis B prevention and post-exposure prophylaxis management varied, with an average score of 73.6 % (± 11.9). While 68.3 % of participants demonstrated high knowledge, 30.3 % had moderate knowledge, and 1.4 % had low knowledge. Higher educational attainment was significantly associated with both increased exposure risk (aOR = 9.7, 95 % CI: 1.5–60.6, p = 0.015) and higher post-exposure prophylaxis knowledge (aOR = 3.3, 95 % CI: 1.0–10.8, p = 0.044). Conclusion: Despite high knowledge levels among healthcare workers, a notable proportion remains at risk of occupational hepatitis B exposure. Targeted interventions, including enhanced training, surveillance, and access to safety measures, are necessary to reduce exposure risk and improve post-exposure prophylaxis knowledge and adherence.