ASSESSMENT OF MEDICAL WASTE DISPOSAL PRACTICES IN PUBLIC HEALTHCARE CENTERS IN MAKURDI TOWN, NIGERIA
Abstract
Medical waste, due to its hazardous nature, poses serious threats to public health and the environment if not properly disposed. This study assesses medical waste disposal practices in Makurdi Town, Benue State, Nigeria. The aim was to assess current practices in public healthcare facilities with a view to guiding planning decisions. The study focused on hospitals, clinics, and primary healthcare centers. Data were collected through surveys with health care workers, waste handlers in the health care centers as well as regulating authority. Personal observations were also used in the process of data collection. The study used a sample size of 31 to collect the data. Data were presented using tables and descriptive analyses. Findings revealed a wide range of medical waste generated in Makurdi, including infectious waste (100%), sharps (5.77%), pathological and pharmaceutical waste (9.57%), chemical waste (8.16%), and radioactive waste (9.57%). Many healthcare facilities were found to practice unsafe disposal methods such as open dumping (31.62%), and open burning (31.18%). This was attributed to inadequate infrastructure, poor regulatory enforcement, and insufficient training of personnel. The study also identified other critical challenges including lack of segregation at the point of generation, limited access to protective equipment, and ineffective waste treatment options. Furthermore, a significant number of healthcare workers demonstrated limited awareness of the risks and proper protocols associated with medical waste management. It concludes that the current disposal methods in Makurdi pose substantial health and environmental risks. Recommendations include strengthening regulatory frameworks, investing in waste treatment facilities, regular training of healthcare staff, and public sensitization on safe medical waste handling. This study provides valuable insights that can inform policy and contribute to safer, more sustainable healthcare waste management practices in urban centers like Makurdi.
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