Perception regarding bio-medical waste management among medical students in a tertiary care hospital

Abstract

Background: Bio-medical waste is perilous and can be a health hazard. There is considerable role of medical undergraduates, interns and post-graduates in preventing hazardous consequences from mishandling of biomedical waste. Aims & Objectives: To assess the knowledge, attitude and practice about Bio-medical waste management among medical undergraduates, interns and post-graduate students. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 75 participants including MBBS students, interns and post-graduate students (25 from each group) at King George’s Medical University, Lucknow through purposive sampling technique over a period of one month. A structured self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Data were analyzed using Chi-square, Fischer-exact, one-way ANOVA and Post Hoc (Tukey) Tests. Results: MBBS students had more knowledge and the better attitude towards BMW management guidelines as compared to interns and post-graduates(p<0.001), while post-graduate students were more aware of the needle-stick injury and were correctly practicing BMW management as compared to MBBS students and interns(p<0.001). Conclusions: Knowledge, attitude and practice regarding BMW management is still inadequate among MBBS students, interns and post-graduates, so repeated training-retraining and supportive supervision regarding the same should be foster. Strict regulations and surprise perusals might be a strong impetus for medical students and other health personnel.