Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Regarding Biomedical Waste Management Among Healthcare Personnel: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Improper biomedical waste management (BMWM) poses significant risks to healthcare workers, patients, and the environment. Despite regulatory frameworks in Pakistan, gaps in knowledge, attitude, and practices persist among healthcare personnel. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among healthcare personnel at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Lahore. A pretested structured questionnaire assessing knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) was administered to doctors, nurses, and auxiliary staff. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. Descriptive statistics and Spearman’s correlation were applied. Results: A total of 200 participants were included. Awareness regarding biomedical waste generation was reported by 76% of participants. Doctors demonstrated higher knowledge compared to nurses and auxiliary staff. While 93.5% identified BMWM as a team responsibility, only 55% were aware of waste auditing procedures. Training participation was limited, although 82% expressed willingness for further training. Knowledge levels significantly differed across professional categories (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Although general awareness of BMWM was satisfactory, significant gaps exist in technical knowledge and practices, particularly among auxiliary staff. Continuous training programs and institutional policy enforcement are essential to improve compliance.

Keywords: Biomedical waste management; Healthcare workers; Knowledge attitude practice; Infection control; Pakistan