AWARENESS ABOUT BIOMEDICAL WASTE MANAGEMENT IN HEALTH CARE PERSONNEL
Author: DANTU PADMASREE, UKEY UJWALA U.
Category: Biochemistry
Abstract:
The waste produced in the course of healthcare activities carries a higher potential for infection and injury than any other type of waste. It must be properly managed to protect the public in general, healthcare and sanitation workers, in specific who are regularly exposed to biomedical waste as an occupational hazard. Objective: To assess the level of awareness about biomedical waste and disposal practices. Methods: A descriptive cross- sectional study was conducted among 150 health care personnel (70 nurses, 40 medical laboratory technicians and 40 sanitary staff) of MIMS General Hospital, Nellimarla, Vizianagaram to assess their knowledge of biomedical waste management. Data was collected by a semi-structured proforma by interview technique with relevant questionnaire. Results: Medical laboratory technicians had a better knowledge than nurses regarding biomedical waste management. Sanitary staff had a very poor knowledge about it. Conclusion: Lack of proper and complete knowledge about biomedical waste management impacts practices of appropriate waste disposal. Thus it is concluded that there should be strict implementation of a waste management policy set up in the institute. Training and motivation must be given paramount importance to meet the current needs and standard of biomedical waste management.
