Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Biomedical waste management among health care personnel in a tertiary care hospital in Puducherry.

Abstract

Background: Studies in India and other developing countries has shown lack of knowledge and poor practice of Biomedical waste management (BMW). Hence this study was undertaken to know the KAP of BMW in our hospital, to identify the gaps and to take necessary steps for rectification. Materials and Methods: This was an observational descriptive hospital based cross sectional study. The study group included the 337 healthcare personnel which included doctors(residents), nurses, laboratory technicians and multi-purpose workers. The study was done using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. The data was analysed using software SPSS 20 version . Proportions were used for interpretation. Results: It showed that 50% of nursing staff and 25% of MPWs had the knowledge of colour coding and segregation. There was also poor knowledge regarding disposal of sharps among technicians and MPWs. It also brought to our notice that only 50% of the doctors (residents) and nursing staff and 26% of the laboratory technicians have undergone training in BMW management. None of the MPWs had received training regarding BMW management. They had good knowledge regarding the diseases transmitted through improper bio medical waste handling. Conclusion: This study revealed that there is the need to continue the training programme for BMW and to include technicians and MPWs in the programme. It also shows that the administration needs to put protocols, provide PPE and other resources for better compliance of BMW rules.