A study to assess the knowledge and practice on bio-medical waste management among the health care providers working in PHCs of Bagepalli Taluk with the view to prepare informational booklet

Background: The proper handling and disposal of bio-medical waste is very imperative. Unfortunately, laxity and lack of adequate knowledge and practice on bio-medical waste disposal leads to staid health and environment apprehension. Aim: To assess the knowledge and practice on bio-medical waste management among the health care providers working in primary health centres (PHCs) of Bagepalli Taluk with the view to prepare informational booklet. Methods: In the present study, health care providers are categorized into four; Senior Health Workers (SHW), Junior Health Workers (JHW), Laboratory Technicians and Pharmacists. Periodical visits were made to analyze knowledge and practice about bio-medical waste management among health care providers of all PHCs in Bagepalli Taluk using questionnaires. Results: 29% were between the age of 21-30 years and 41-50 years, 26% were between the age group of 31-40 years and 16% were ≥ 51 years. 77 (64%) were females. 85% of were multi-purpose branch health worker/auxiliary nurse midwives (MPBHW/ANM), 8% were laboratory technicians, and 7% were pharmacists. 39 (33%) had 0-5 years of experience, 28 (23%) had 6-10 years of experience, 18 (15%) had 11-15 years of experience, and 35 (29%) had ≥ 16 years of experience. 99 (83%) did not have any in-service education and 21 (17%) had attended in-service education regarding bio-medical waste management. Conclusion: The results obtained pointed towards lack of knowledge and awareness towards legislations on bio-medical waste management even among qualified hospital personnel. Consequently, there is inappropriate practice of biomedical waste handling and management, thus exposing themselves and the general public to health and environment hazards.