EXPLORING SOCIETAL DYNAMICS IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF BIOMEDICAL WASTE MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES BY HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS

Abstract

Biomedical Waste (BMW) is produced during surgeries, medical procedures, diagnostic methods, and other medical activities. Due to its dangerous and unsafe nature, biomedical waste needs special attention on how it is separated, disposed of, and dealt with. All medical professionals have a critical role in the disposal of biomedical waste. Ensuring that biomedical waste is managed and disposed of safely is a responsibility that falls on everyone associated with working in, managing, and financing the medical field. Biomedical waste management (BMWM) with efficiency is imperative for healthy masses and a cleaner environment. This study will shed light on BMWM rules and regulations of 2005, and what are the operational problems in executing these rules. These rules are for the betterment of biomedical waste separation, transference, and ejection. To minimize environmental pollution due to BMW in Pakistan. Objectives: This research was conducted in government hospitals of Punjab, Pakistan. This study evaluated the BMWM strategies implied by healthcare professionals in this region. Methodology: This is a qualitative study. 450 participants were enrolled performing different jobs in health care departments. A custom-made questionnaire was used to inquire about BMWM practices used in the hospitals for data collection. The collected data was processed in SPSS version 22. Result: The research shed light on the fact that even though there were rules and committees to ensure proper biomedical waste management, biomedical waste was still not dealt with in various hospitals due to a lack of training of health care professionals regarding this matter. Suggestion: Teamwork between departments devoted to the safe disposal of BMW, support and financial aid from the government, and committed health workers and healthcare facilities are required to ensure a safe BMWM. Consistent monitoring to ensure the execution. The ground rule of biomedical waste management is separation at source and minimizing waste. There's a need for more studies and exploration in developing eco-friendly medical gadgets for a greener and cleaner environment.