Healthcare Workers' Awareness of Medical Waste Management in the Children's Hospital, Benghazi

Abstract

This study assesses the awareness of healthcare workers (HCWs) regarding medical waste management at the Children's Hospital in Benghazi, Libya. It employs a descriptive-analytical method, using a questionnaire distributed to a stratified random sample of 150 HCWs, including doctors, nurses, technicians, and cleaning staff, achieving a 92% response rate.

The theoretical framework for the study is built upon the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) model and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). The research aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and actual practices of HCWs concerning medical waste segregation, handling, and disposal.

Key Findings:

Knowledge: The overall knowledge level was found to be moderate (72%). However, a significant knowledge gap exists between different professional categories, with doctors showing the highest level of knowledge and cleaning staff the lowest.

Attitudes: HCWs generally demonstrated positive attitudes (82%) towards the importance of proper medical waste management, with a high sense of personal responsibility.

Practices: The study revealed a notable gap between positive attitudes and actual practices, with the overall practice score being the lowest (68%).

Influencing Factors: Previous training had a statistically significant positive impact on knowledge, attitudes, and practices.

Recommendations:

Mandatory and Continuous Training: Implementing comprehensive training programs for all HCWs.

Infrastructure and Resources: Providing necessary resources such as color-coded containers and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Clear Policies: Establishing and disseminating clear, written Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for medical waste management.

A Culture of Safety: Promoting effective supervision and a proactive approach to risk management.