Abstract
Operating room waste is categorized as noncontaminated solid waste (SW) and regulated medical waste (RMW). RMW is treated by autoclaving at an increased economic and environmental cost. We evaluated these costs with a focus on the disposable carbon dioxide (CO2) absorbers. At our institution, exhausted CO2 absorbers were discarded as RMW. We collaborated with product representatives, anesthesia and perioperative staff, and waste management personnel to identify opportunities and barriers for recycling and waste reduction. Ultimately, we agreed to discard CO2 absorbers as SW instead of RMW, a strategy that is practical, less expensive, and more environmentally appropriate.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.