Clinical Waste Management in Heaqlth Facilities: Knowledge, Attitudes And Practices In Mulago National Referral Hospital, Pediatric Wards.
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Date
2024-07-24
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King Ceasor University, Institutional Repository
Abstract
The study investigated the health workers’ knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding clinical waste management in the Mulago Hospital pediatric ward. The specific Objectives of the Study were; to examine workers’ knowledge about clinical waste management in the Mulago Hospital Pediatric Ward to determine the attitudes of healthcare workers about clinical management in the Mulago Hospital Pediatric Ward and to identify health workers’ practice about clinical management in the Mulago Hospital Pediatric Ward. The research employed a descriptive, cross-sectional design with quantitative research approaches. Data collection methods include questionnaires and key informant interviews. The sample size comprises 52 participants, including health workers at Mulago National Referral Hospital. The study revealed that the respondents demonstrate a strong understanding of key aspects such as standards and regulations, waste categorization, and proper segregation and disposal practices. However, there are areas where knowledge could be improved, particularly in responding to blood exposure accidents and segregating sharp clinical waste. The findings revealed that a significant proportion of respondents agreed with the importance of proper waste handling. For example, 56% believed that waste management in the pediatric ward is proper, indicating confidence in current practices. Additionally, 60% affirmed that waste management is their duty, reflecting a strong sense of responsibility. Respondents also demonstrated awareness of safety measures in waste management, with 77% agreeing that waste must be collected carefully. Moreover, 62% advocated
for consistent glove usage to prevent exposure-related risks. The study findings also revealed that there is a mixed level of adherence to recommended practices. A significant proportion consistently use rubber gloves during medical services, indicating a positive approach to protecting against exposure to hazardous materials. Additionally, there is strong compliance with proper disposal practices for sharp clinical waste, with a majority consistently using hard containers. Respondents also demonstrate proactive behavior in promptly addressing spills of liquid clinical waste. However, areas for improvement exist, particularly regarding the consistent use of personal protective equipment when picking up trash and ensuring thorough hand hygiene after contact with medical waste. Finally, it was recommended that the hospital administration should ensure that adequate resources, including personal protective equipment (PPE), waste disposal
containers, and signage, are readily available to support safe waste management practices. Investing in these resources not only enhances safety but also reinforces the positive attitudes observed among healthcare workers toward waste management.
Keywords: Clinical Waste Management; Health Workers; Mulago Hospital Pediatric Ward
Description
Mulago National Referral Hospital, Uganda.