Study to Assess the Knowledge of Hospital Waste Management among Healthcare Personnel at Medical College in Haryana

Abstract

Background: Hospital Waste collection and proper disposal has become a significant concern for both the medical
and general community. It is estimated that 10-25% of healthcare waste is hazardous, with the potential to create
a variety of health problems. Handling, segregation, mutilation, disinfection, storage, transportation and final
disposal are vital steps for safe and scientific management of Hospital waste in any establishment.
Objectives: To assess the knowledge of hospital Waste management among healthcare personnel working in a
tertiary care centre.
Methods: To assess the knowledge of hospital Waste management among healthcare personnel working in a
tertiary care hospital. A hospital based cross sectional study was conducted. The Study participants included
nursing staff, ward boys and cleaning staff working in the institute who deal with Medical waste and were selected
randomly to make the sample size of 250 with equal representation in both categories. A pretested semi-structured
questionnaire was used.
Results: The study showed gaps in the knowledge of categories of respondents. The knowledge of the existence of
Medical waste management in nurses was (79%), as well as in cleaning staff was (37%). The knowledge in practical
aspects of Medical waste management was better in nurses, as compare to cleaning staff.