Farooq M T, Omar N, Shahid F, Khizar S, Khan A, Ashfaq N, Manzoor I.
Assessment Of Hospital Waste Management Protocols In Tertiary Care Hospitals Of Lahore.
Biomedica Jan ;33(2):136-42.

Background and Objectives: Health care waste management is an essential part of infection control in a health establishment and apposite measures are imperative to prevent nosocomial infections.Aim of the study was to observe hospital waste management protocols and assess awareness of staff regarding these protocols. Methods: Cross sectional study was conducted on six tertiary care hospitals of Lahore giving permission. A tool adopted from WHO infection control assessment protocol was used to record observations and interview the staff. Results: In all of the six hospitals, waste was being segregated using color coding.Collection was timely and from all areas. Transportation in uncovered trolleys from within the hospitals 3 (50%). As observed 5 (83%) hospitals had designated storage space with impermeable flooring and ventilation. However direct water supply and air conditioners were not ensured in 2 (33.3%). Average 8 – 10 staff was working, showing positive trend of usage of personal protective devices. Workers of 4 (66.6%), were vaccinated with initial dose of Hepatitis B vaccine and Tetanus Toxoid, with screening for Tuberculosis in 2 (33.3%) hospitals. Displaying of hand hygiene posters, running water facilities 3 (50%), availability of soap or sanitizer 2 (33%) was observed. Majority hospitals 5 (83%) were following injection safety protocols. Staff, 54 (100%) considered waste disposal important, 40 (74%) were aware of color coding system, 27 (50%) ultimate disposal of infectious and non-infectious waste, 49 (90%) importance of personal protective devices and 40 (74%) occurrence of diseases due to waste mishandling. Conclusion: It was concluded that majority hospitals were following appropriate protocols but standards of hospital waste management varied with lapses in the transportation of waste.

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