EVALUATION OF MEDICAL WASTE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES: A CASE STUDY OF OBAFEMI AWOLOWO UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL WESLEY GUIDE, ILESA, OSUN STATE, NIGERIA
Abstract
Abstract
Medical waste management is a critical component of healthcare delivery, as improper handling poses significant risks to health workers, patients, and the environment. This study assessed the medical waste management practices at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital (Wesley Guild), Ilesa, Osun State. A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted, targeting 150 healthcare workers, of which 120 completed the study, yielding an 80% response rate. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and an observational checklist to evaluate waste segregation, storage, transportation, treatment, and disposal methods, as well as knowledge, attitudes, and practices of staff.
The findings revealed that although most respondents demonstrated adequate awareness of medical waste management guidelines, actual practices were inconsistent with national and WHO standards. Waste segregation at the point of generation was suboptimal, with improper use of color-coded bins and irregular use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Major challenges identified included inadequate infrastructure, lack of regular training, insufficient funding, and weak policy enforcement. Observations confirmed gaps in safe storage, transportation, and treatment, with many waste handlers exposed to unnecessary risks.
The study concludes that while awareness exists, there is a pressing need for improved infrastructure, capacity building, and stronger enforcement of medical waste management policies. Recommendations include regular staff training, enhanced resource allocation, strengthened monitoring systems, and fostering interdepartmental collaboration. Implementing these measures will contribute significantly to safeguarding public health and achieving relevant Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to health and environmental sustainability.
Keywords: Medical waste management, healthcare workers, hospital waste, waste segregation, occupational health, Wesley Guild Hospital, Nigeria
Full-Text Access Notice
In accordance with the NERD Policy on promoting peer-reviewed publication, public access to the full text of a project, thesis or dissertation is restricted for three years, allowing the author and supervisors sufficient time to pursue peer-reviewed publication.
During this period, researchers with legitimate academic or research purposes may request authorisation directly from the author to enable NERD to release the indexed full texts of the work using the form below.