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Abstract
Background. The correct disposal of healthcare waste is vitally important to protect the environment and public health. Improperly disposed of medical waste can endanger health by polluting the environment, affecting the quality of water resources and transmitting disease.
Objectives. To explore the knowledge and practices of pharmacists and nurses regarding waste disposal at a selected hospital in South Africa.
Methods. A quantitative design was used for the study. A stratified random sampling method was adopted to select participants, and convenience sampling was used to select the hospital. Data were obtained using a closed-ended questionnaire. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics with percentages and frequencies, which were presented in graphs and tables. A total sample size of 280 healthcare workers was used.
Results. A total of 280 nurses and pharmacists participated in the study, with a response rate of 100%. Most of the participants were female. The majority (n=112; 40.0%) were aged between 30 and 39 years. Most (n=252; 90.0%) understood that medical and general waste should be disposed of separately; to prevent injuries, 244 (87.1%) would dispose of injection syringes in a sharps disposal container, 274 (97.9%) would dispose of injection needles in a sharps disposal container, and 218 (77.9%) would dispose of empty medicine vials in a sharps disposal container; and 278 (99.3%) understood proper disposal of gloves contaminated with blood to prevent infections.
Conclusion. Most of the participants understood that medical and general waste should be disposed of separately, and they understood and identified proper sharps disposal methods to prevent injuries. Overall, waste disposal knowledge and practice were satisfactory. However, ongoing education and training are recommended to close any gaps in knowledge and encourage consistent practice.
References
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