Knowledge and Practice of Healthcare Waste Management among Healthcare Professionals in Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Enugu

Abstract

Healthcare waste (HCW) poses significant health risks if not properly managed, as it can contain infectious agents, toxic chemicals, and sharp objects that threaten the health of patients, healthcare workers, waste handlers, and the general public. This study examines the knowledge and practice of healthcare waste management among professionals in Enugu State University Teaching Hospital (ESUTH), Enugu. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, with a target population of 834 and a sample size of 270, determined using Yamane’s formula. Stratified random sampling ensured proportional representation. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency distribution and chi-square tests. Findings from the study revealed that most healthcare workers were knowledgeable about waste management policies (92.9%), waste generation (94.3%), and waste collection and segregation (85.7%). General waste (21.5%) and sharp waste (21.2%) were the most commonly generated, while chemical waste (8.8%) was the least reported. Despite their knowledge, practical implementation was inconsistent, with poor adherence to waste segregation protocols. The study concludes that while healthcare workers at ESUTH have substantial knowledge of HCW management, gaps in practice remain. To address this, regular training sessions, improved waste disposal facilities, stricter compliance measures, and continuous awareness campaigns are recommended. These interventions will enhance healthcare waste management, minimize environmental risks, and ensure a safer healthcare environment.