Investigating Knowledge, Attitude and Health Care Waste Management by Health Workers in a Nigerian Tertiary Health Institution

INTRODUCTION: Inadequate knowledge and practice of health care waste management by health workers may have serious health consequences and a significant impact on the environment.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the study was to ascertain the knowledge, attitude and practice of hospital waste management among health workers in Enugu.

METHODS: A cross sectional descriptive survey was carried out among 115 health workers at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaire, and was analysed using SPSS version 21. Statistical significance of association between variables was assessed using Chi-square test at p<0.05. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Research Ethics Committee of UNTH

RESULTS: All 115 respondents returned the completed questionnaires. Sixty (52.2%) were females and fifty five (47.8%) were males. The mean age of respondents was 31.7 ±11.8 years. Ninety three (80.9%) had heard of hospital waste management, 95 (83%) were aware that hospital waste is classified into hazardous and non-hazardous waste. Ninety nine (86.1%) were aware of waste segregation, only 25(21.7%) dispose medical waste in specified color coded container always. Majority 90 (78.3%) use latex gloves when handling waste.

CONCLUSION: Most of the respondents knew what health care waste management means (HCWM), but very few practiced appropriate health care waste management. Health education and training is recommended for the health care workers periodically and regularly.