An Overview of the Biomedical Waste Generation on Per Bed Basis in Some Hospitals of Punjab State of India

Abstract

Introduction: The biomedical waste management is an important issue and it also a challenging one. The present study was designed to assess the quantum of biomedical waste generated for some hospitals in Punjab. The study also intends to seek possible explanations for the different values obtained for different institutes. Materials and methods: Ten hospitals with a bed capacity of 200 or more were selected for the study. The biomedical waste generated from these institutions for the months of September, October, and November 2018 was scrutinized. The biomedical waste generated per bed (assuming 100% bed occupancy and actual bed occupancy) was determined. The results were sent to the administrative officers of these institutes and possible explanations sought for the similarity/difference amongst institutes. Results: From the results, it is evident that hospitals with larger bed strength are not necessarily generating more biomedical waste per bed. Rather, a careful observational analysis reveals that private institutes in general are generating more biomedical waste per bed occupied visa -vis the government institutes. This could in part be attributable to more disposables being used in these institutions and good practices of biomedical waste management followed in these institutes. The extent of biomedical waste generated by an institute also depends upon the number and type of patients admitted in departments. It is also influenced by the bed strength allocated to different departments. Still, the institutes with lesser biomedical waste generation should ensure that biomedical waste practices are strictly being followed and the record keeping is referable and meticulous. Conclusion: The quantity of biomedical waste is increasing in its amount and type due to advances in scientific knowledge and this has an impact on human lives. So, it is imperative that efforts are continuously made in the right direction so that biomedical waste disposal goals are achieved to highest possible pinnacle.