Solid Medical Waste Management Strategy in Hospitals, Indonesia

Abstract

The increase in solid medical waste generation has the potential to harm both human health and the environment when not adequately managed. Research Objectives: This research aims to identify solid medical waste management strategies in hospitals. Methods: This quantitative research uses a cross-sectional study design at the Deli Serdang District Hospital, Sumatra Province, Indonesia. The instrument used to collect data was a questionnaire, and the analysis was conducted using SEM PLS Version 3.3. Results: Policies have a significant effect on the behavior of human resources with a p-value of 0.001, and facilities significantly affect the management of solid medical waste with a p-value of 0.001. The waste treatment methods significantly affect the management where the p-value is 0.001. Subsequently, the behavior of human resources has a very significant effect on the management with a p-value of 0.001. Conclusion: Policies such as regulatory documents, SOPs, and complete work instructions can establish good behavior. Complete facilities such as trash containers or bins, personal protective equipment, materials for cleaning or disinfection, hazardous and toxic waste (B3) landfills, and waste transportation equipment also play a role in appropriate medical waste management. Additionally, waste treatment methods such as incinerators, autoclaves, and chemical disinfection determine the optimal management of solid medical waste.