Evaluating Medical Waste Sorting Methods and Ultimate Disposal Across Various Health Units at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Globally, the surge in medical and healthcare waste is evident, primarily driven by population growth, expanding healthcare facilities, and increased usage of disposable medical products. This study employed qualitative data collection methods, utilizing direct observation and daily review of completed questionnaires to ensure accuracy. Data sets were meticulously organized using an Excel spreadsheet and the Statistical Products and Service Solution (SPSS) data entry module. The assessment focused on waste segregation practices within various health units at KIU-TH. It was observed that healthcare officers in specific units predominantly managed waste segregation, with 95% of units employing color-coded waste bins. Black bins were the most prevalent, followed by red and yellow bins. Notably, a significant percentage indicated that containers for healthcare waste transportation consistently had securely covered lids (96%). The transportation of waste primarily relied on manual methods, either through hand-pushing containers or via vehicles. The study highlighted the implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and guiding documents across all health units and disposal sites. Overall, the findings underscored the prevalence of healthcare waste segregation using color-coded collection bins. However, instances of non-hazardous waste mixing with hazardous waste in general containers were observed, alongside the widespread presence of instructive posters in nearly all visited health units. Keywords: medical waste, segregation practices, disposal