AI-Supported Gamified Training for Sharps Injury Prevention in Nurses

Sharps injuries are among the most common occupational hazards for healthcare workers, particularly nurses, due to their frequent exposure to invasive procedures and contact with blood and body fluids. These injuries are associated with the risk of transmission of serious infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. Despite the implementation of standard precautions and institutional training programs, the incidence of sharps injuries remains a significant concern, highlighting the need for more effective and behavior-focused educational interventions.

Traditional training methods are often limited in their ability to promote sustained behavioral change. In this context, theory-based and technology-supported approaches may provide more effective solutions. The Health Belief Model (HBM) is widely used to explain and predict health-related behaviors by focusing on individuals' perceptions of risk, benefits, barriers, and self-efficacy. Integrating HBM into educational interventions may enhance the effectiveness of training programs aimed at improving safe practices.

In addition, recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and gamification have introduced innovative opportunities in health education. AI-supported systems can provide personalized learning experiences, while gamification techniques, such as interactive scenarios, feedback, and rewards, can increase motivation, engagement, and knowledge retention. These approaches may be particularly beneficial in nursing education, where active participation and behavioral reinforcement are essential.

This study will be conducted in two phases. In the first phase, the validity and reliability of the Sharps Injury Prediction Scale will be evaluated in a nurse population. In the second phase, a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest control group design will be used to assess the effectiveness of an HBM-based, AI-supported gamified training program.

The study will be carried out in two hospitals within the same healthcare group located in different cities to minimize interaction between groups. A total of 36 nurses will be included. The intervention group will receive a structured training program consisting of seven sessions designed based on HBM constructs, incorporating AI-supported educational materials, gamified learning tools, and interactive components. The control group will receive routine institutional training.

Data will be collected at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and two months after the intervention. Outcome measures will include knowledge levels, attitudes toward safe use of sharps, and risk perception related to sharps injuries.

The findings of this study are expected to contribute to the development of innovative, theory-based educational strategies and support the integration of AI-supported and gamified training approaches into healthcare institutions to enhance occupational safety among nurses.

Inclusion criteria

• Registered nurses working in the participating hospitals
• Working in the institution for at least 2 months (Phase 1) or newly employed within the last 1 month (Phase 2)
• Willing to participate in the study
• Able to use smartphone-based technologies
• Providing written informed consent

Exclusion criteria

• Having received prior training based on the Health Belief Model for sharps injury prevention
• Previous professional nursing experience before current employment (for newly recruited nurses in Phase 2)
• Being on leave during the data collection period
• Failure to attend training sessions (intervention group)
• Incomplete data collection forms
• Withdrawal from the study at any stage