Assessing Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Healthcare Workers in Private Hospitals

Abstract

The effective management of hospital waste is gaining prominence in numerous developing nations, primarily attributed to its infectious and hazardous characteristics. This involves augmenting the capacity of existing healthcare facilities and the construction of new hospitals in both the public and private sectors. The research delves into the complex landscape of healthcare waste management in private hospitals in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, specifically in Peshawar, Pakistan. The study meticulously explores the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and lab technicians, regarding the proper disposal of medical waste. The global context of healthcare waste is emphasized, underscoring the need for effective management to control infections and prevent the spread of diseases. The study identifies challenges in waste management, highlighting disparities between developed and developing nations in enforcing regulations and addressing issues such as inadequate knowledge and funding. The environmental and social impacts of improper medical waste disposal in Pakistan, particularly in densely populated urban areas like Peshawar, are discussed. The study reveals that the combustion of medical waste contributes to severe air pollution and associated health complications. Through a detailed examination of healthcare workers' knowledge and practices, the research identifies varying awareness levels among different professional groups, calling for targeted interventions to bridge gaps and improve waste management practices. The methodology and results analysis provide a robust foundation for future research and policy initiatives. The study advocates for enhanced healthcare waste management in the region to benefit the current population and safeguard the well-being of future generations. Doctors and nurses demonstrated higher awareness levels compared to paramedics and sanitary workers, aligning with similar findings in the literature. The research highlights the importance of regular supervision and training at all levels for proper and secure hospital waste management.