SEARCH · PubMed Health

Results for “Medical Waste Disposal”

Explore indexed PubMed citations for clinical trials, systematic reviews and public health research. Read source abstracts and follow each citation to its original PubMed record.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 343 records · Page 19Linked to original sources

PubMed1995

Current legislation governing clinical waste disposal.

The paper considers UK and EC Legislation regulating clinical waste disposal. The legal definition of clinical waste is distinguished from both 'health care waste' and 'infectious waste'. Waste can be pre-treated so as to enable it to be disposed of through the normal waste stream. The legislation is looked at by reference to (i) production and storage; (ii) handling and transportation; and (iii) disposal. It is vitally important to draw up a waste management strategy. Effective segregation at source is a key factor in the waste management strategy and it will enable hospital authorities to make economic savings in waste disposal costs. The Paper considers the Duty of Care under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and stresses the obligation on each person in the waste disposal chain to discharge the Duty. Landfilling as a method of disposal is discouraged except for waste where no possibility of infection arises. There are problems with hospital incinerators meeting modern emission standards. Requirements for licensing new incinerators are examined. The new Waste Management Licensing Regulations 1994 require applications for Waste Management Licenses to demonstrate technical and financial competence as 'fit and proper persons'. The Paper concludes by examining penalties for breach of regulatory provisions.

England↗

PubMed2000

Radioactive waste minimization implications of clinically-indicated exsanguination procedures.

Exsanguination is a method of animal euthanasia approved for use in specific circumstances. Animals undergoing exsanguination are fully anesthetized, and the blood is removed resulting in hypovolemia. In situations where radioactive materials are used as part of a research protocol that remain predominantly suspended in the blood, the exsanguination procedure can result in a significant lowering of residual radioactivity content. This reduction can greatly affect the types of waste management and minimization options that can be subsequently applied. In this study, data were collected from 20 rabbits injected with approximately 29.6 MBq (0.8 mCi) of tritiated thymidine as part of a percutaneous transluminal carotid artery angioplasty study. Residual concentrations of radioactivity were consistently reduced by an average of 88%. The reduction was very significant in this instance, since the residual activities were below the established exemption limit of 1.85 kBq g(-1) (0.05 microCi g(-1)) for disposal of these wastes as non-radioactive. Although the exsanguination procedure can result in significant waste minimization opportunities in certain circumstances, this should not be the rationale for its use. Rather, the method of euthanasia should be based exclusively on sound animal care and use principles, and waste management strategies should then be made following that decision. Health Phys. 79(3):291-293; 2000 Key words: waste, low-level; waste management; radiation protection; blood

Animals↗

PubMed1995

Disposal-related sharps injuries at a New York City Teaching Hospital.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize disposal-related sharps injuries. DESIGN: A three-part study including (a) descriptive analysis of disposal-related injuries in a 1-year period, (b) 4:1 matched case-control study of nurses injured while using sharps disposal containers, and (c) survey to solicit opinions of users of containers. SETTING: An 1,181-bed teaching hospital in New York City. PARTICIPANTS: For epidemiologic analyses, persons with self-reported injuries identified via New York State and Occupational Safety and Health Administration forms and control nurses without self-reported injuries. For survey, convenience sample of hospital nurses, laboratory workers, and maintenance workers. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Circumstances of injuries determined by study questionnaires. Employee opinions obtained by questionnaires and discussions during small group sessions. RESULTS: Three hundred sixty-one persons reported sharps injuries, of whom 72 (20%) had disposal-related injuries. Persons with disposal-related injuries included four hospital visitors and one patient. Of 67 disposal-related injuries among employees, 25 (37%) directly involved use of a sharps disposal container. Significant risk factors for injury included container height greater than 4 ft above the floor, distance less than 5 ft from site of sharp object use to nearest container, and lack of attendance at universal precautions inservice classes. Survey groups involved 69 employees who identified a variety of preferred features for sharps disposal containers. CONCLUSIONS: Disposal of sharp objects is an important cause of sharps injuries. Ergonomic factors, worker education, and appropriate container design should be considered in injury prevention strategies. Relevant guidelines and regulations are lacking and are needed.

Case-Control Studies↗

PubMedDate not supplied

[The new management regulation for hospital wastes].

The paper characterizes the main goals of the new regulations on the management of the hospital wastes. The motivations for which the previous regulations have been repealed are shown. The new possibilities of management and disposal are explained. The instruments are described by means of which the new regulations, maintaining the maximum protection of the health and the environment, aimed at the rationalization and the control of the costs, and to the attainment of it objectives, in agreement with the European directives of prevention of the production of wastes and recovery of matter and energy, through the attainment and the upgrade of the differentiated collection.

Humans↗

PubMedDate not supplied

Biomedical immunization waste management--an AP experience.

The partnership project with Gates foundation grant in 2001 was rolled out in a phased manner to strengthen routine immunization with introduction of Hepatitis B and AD syringes into immunization program. Initial success lead to reworking of plans for fast expansion, in three years with consolidation and strengthening in last two years. With introduction of AD Syringes the issue of safe disposal became prominent. Operational research on the safety box led to modifications in the prototype, introduced new challenges to find local manufacturers to make the product for wider introduction. This improved scope to coordinate with other projects to integrate safe injection pits into the disposal system, try out new solutions for sharps waste management in light of new pollution control guidelines. Study at Mehboobnagar district point towards feasibility of introducing small puncture proof containers and needle cutters as a solution for sharps waste management at the rural settings. Injection safety has been introduced in immunization sector and the challenge still remains to extend this to the curative sector, which contributes to more than 90% of the problem.

Guidelines as Topic↗

PubMed2006

Waste responsibility: or wasted opportunity?

This article will seek to identify, within the generic role of the theatre practitioner (TP), how effective waste management is crucial to patient care. Its place in infection control will also be discussed, along with issues of health and safety in the workplace. The ramifications of waste disposal are managed by legislation and therefore levels of responsibility, within the healthcare setting, will be explored. Potential difficulties arising from discrepancy between policy and practice will be examined, with a rationale presented for the TP's personal responsibility to keep abreast of changes. Finally, conflicting obligations that impinge on the economics of waste management will be adjudged, along with their implications for patient care now and in the future.

Humans↗

PubMed2005

Are national recommendations regarding examination and disposal of products of miscarriage being followed? A need for revised guidelines?

BACKGROUND: National guidance documents advise that tissue obtained from treatment of miscarriage should be submitted for histological examination to exclude trophoblastic disease and ectopic pregnancy, and require sensitive disposal of human tissue. The aim of this study was to determine the extent to which health professionals have adopted these recommendations. METHODS AND RESULTS: Fifteen Scottish Obstetric and Gynaecology services participated in an audit of early pregnancy loss care. Three audit tools were used. In a case note review, 484 women completed medical or surgical treatment for miscarriage. 71% of records contained evidence of histological examination of tissue. Documentation of discussion of disposal of tissue with the woman was found in 29% of records. In a patient survey, 648 women with threatened or confirmed miscarriage returned questionnaires. Active treatment occurred in 134 cases. Only 55%, 50.9% and 47.4% reported being 'informed', 'consented' and 'involved', respectively, with decisions about tissue disposal. In a staff survey, a postal questionnaire was administered to 224 gynaecologists, with 144 replies. Self reported practice as 'seldom' or 'occasional' for sending tissue for histological examination was 34% for surgical evacuation and 57% for medical management. Reporting of 'seldom' or 'occasional' discussion of disposal of tissue with the woman was 42% and 49% for surgical and medical treatment, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: National guidance on these issues was found to be contentious and implementation was variable. Wide consultation with stakeholders is needed prior to the publication of revised guidance.

Abortion, Spontaneous↗

PubMedDate not supplied

Psychological impact of colostomy pouch change and disposal.

This article presents some of the findings from a multicentre cross-sectional correlational study to evaluate the relationship between colostomy pouch change and disposal practices and the patient's psychological wellbeing. Five questionnaires were used in a one-off interview with 86 patients. Patients were assessed at between one and four months postoperatively. Results from the Pouch Change and Disposal questionnaire showed that only 25% of patients found disposal of used appliances the most difficult part of their pouch change and disposal routine. Half felt that their body was out of their control and 33% reported avoiding social and leisure activities due to what was involved in their pouch change and disposal routine. Patients cited several factors, such as minimizing odour and having an appliance that could flush away, as factors which would help them to stop avoiding these activities. Stoma care nurses have a unique opportunity to improve the psychological wellbeing of their patients by considering the aspects of pouch change and disposal that pose the greatest challenge to individuals. Use of a modified version of the Pouch Change and Disposal questionnaire may be a useful tool in identifying those at risk of impaired quality of life.

Activities of Daily Living↗

PubMed1996

Where should the waste go?

The legislation on transportation and disposal of clinical waste by community nurses may have been misinterpreted There has been no clear communication of legal requirement and current practice between those administering the service and the community nurses The transportation of clinical waste by the community nurse should only occur if there is no other acceptable method, an approved rigid container is used, and this container is transported in the boot of the nurse's car to the clinical waste collection point at her base

Community Health Nursing↗

PubMed1999

Enhancing safety in a pediatric unit.

This descriptive study demonstrates how a group of nurses in the clinical setting can identify and implement a safe sharps disposal strategy to enhance safety. The aim of this small study was to determine a safer method of disposing used sharp items. The findings indicated that many factors can contribute to inappropriate disposal of used sharp items. Changes in practice were implemented following the findings of this study and resulted in enhanced safety in this paediatric unit. In addition, results of the study were utilised to contribute to evidence based nursing practice.

Adolescent↗

PubMedDate not supplied

Reducing the risk of injuries to staff from insulin pens.

This article describes problems in the use and disposal of sharps used in the administration of insulin therapy in a hospital setting. Subsequent investigation and action taken to reduce the risk of needlestick injuries in staff who administer insulin therapy with an insulin pen delivery system are also discussed.

Accidents, Occupational↗

PubMed2005

Compliance with infection control programs in private dental clinics in Jordan.

The aim of this study was to assess the compliance of general dental practitioners (GDPs) in the private sector in North Jordan with infection control measures. A pilot-tested questionnaire about infection control measures was distributed in March 2004 to 120 private practices. The response rate was 91.66 percent. About 77 percent of dentists usually ask their patients about medical history, 36 percent were vaccinated against hepatitis B, 81.8 percent wear and change gloves during treatment and between patients, and 54.5 percent wear and change masks during treatment and between patients. Most dental practitioners (95.4 percent) reported that they changed extraction instruments and burs between patients. All dental practitioners reported that they changed saliva ejectors between patients, but only 41.8 percent changed handpieces between patients. Approximately 63 percent (69/110) used autoclaves for sterilization, 47.3 percent (52/110) used plastic bags to wrap sterilized instruments, and only 18 percent (20/110) disinfected impressions before sending them to dental labs. Fourteen percent used rubber dams in their clinics, and only 31.8 percent had special containers for sharps disposal. Based on these responses, approximately 14 percent of general dentists in this sample were considered to be compliant with an inventory of recommended infection control measures. In Jordan, there is a great need to provide formal and obligatory infection control courses and guidelines for private dentists by the Ministry of Health and the dental association in addition to distribution of standard infection control manuals that incorporate current infection control recommendations.

Adult↗

PubMed2003

Principles of chemotherapy safety procedures.

With the ever-increasing demand in veterinary medicine to administer chemotherapy agents, it is imperative for the practitioner as well as the support staff to follow strict guidelines for the administration and disposal of cytotoxic drugs. Because of the possible reproductive risks associated with hazardous drugs, all employees who may be pregnant or trying to become pregnant should be excluded from the process. The long-term occupational effects of these agents are not known; therefore, a standard operating procedure including storage of chemotherapy drugs, protective attire, drug preparation, administration, waste disposal/management, hazardous drug spills, and emergency measures for personal contamination should be carefully implemented and documented.

Accidents, Occupational↗

PubMed2002

Frozen autografts: an alternative to graft disposal.

The use of fresh frozen tendon allografts is a well-documented surgical technique. We present a case where a harvested semitendinosus autograft was preserved by deep-freezing, having abandoned the initial procedure due to infection. After treatment of the infection the graft was subsequently used to reconstruct the postero-lateral corner complex with no deleterious effect at 1 year.

Adult↗

PubMed2002

Retained organs.

The Retained Organs Commission, set up in April last year in response to the Alder Hey scandal, has issued a consultation paper. It seeks views on the use and disposal of unclaimed and unidentified organs, and a framework for the regulation of all types of collections of human organs and tissues. The following are the questions to which the Commission seeks answers, which could equally be the basis for some interesting seminars, and the ethical principles and values behind them. Responses are needed by 10 June 2002.

Autopsy↗

PubMed1998

An assessment of cross-infection control procedures among English-speaking Caribbean general dental practitioners. A regional preliminary study.

A survey was undertaken to assess the level of compliance with recommended infection control procedures among English-speaking Caribbean general dental practitioners. A four page questionnaire was sent to all practitioners in 18 English-speaking Caribbean islands. A response rate of 32 per cent was obtained. A large proportion of dentists followed the recommended barrier techniques particularly the use of gloves and facemasks. The most commonly available methods of sterilisation were steam autoclaves (82 per cent) and cold solutions (94 per cent). Seventy four per cent of respondents had received hepatitis B vaccination. A high percentage of dentists showed willingness to treat HBV (95 per cent) and HIV (84 per cent) carriers and this level of willingness to treat infectious patients has rarely been reported previously. There is an urgent need for further improvements to avoid getting inoculation injuries and splatters in the face or eyes with body fluids. Disposal of sharps and collection of solid waste are to be upgraded. The Caribbean Atlantic Regional Dental Association is planning to carry out similar research before the end of the year 2000.

Cross Infection↗

PubMed2004

Dental amalgam: regulating its use and disposal.

Although dental amalgam has been a restorative material for more than 150 years, government regulation of its use and disposal came much later with the creation of new federal laws and agencies. None of the federal laws regulating dental amalgam today were written specifically to regulate amalgam. Instead, these new laws and agencies were created to address broad public safety concerns, where little or no regulation existed before, in the areas of medical devices and drugs and environmental pollution. It is the interpretation and implementation of environmental laws that recently have had the greatest impact on dental practices.

California↗

PubMedDate not supplied

[Prevention of infection in a surgical environment in the regional hospitals of Senegal].

This study evaluated the attitudes and practices of the personnel with respect to the prevention of nosocomial infections in a hospital environment. We carried out a qualitative survey of all categories of personnel between July 1998 and March 1999, at the five regional hospitals in Senegal (Thiés, Kaolack, Saint-Louis, Diourbel, and Louga). Data were collected in two ways: using a questionnaire to evaluate knowledge and by observing the attitudes and practices of the personnel. Hands were rarely washed before and after each procedure and surgical washing was often performed in poor conditions. The decontamination of soiled equipment was ineffective. Reusable instruments were washed directly with bare hands or by individuals wearing used surgical gloves. The equipment used for sterilization was dilapidated and unsuitable and the norms for sterilization were seldom respected. Circulation in the region of the operating theatre was disorganized, if not anarchic. The personnel had a high risk of contamination from blood. Biomedical waste was not decontaminated: it was collected poorly and disposed of directly into the environment. None of the sites visited had a program of waste incineration. In conclusion, at the sites visited, there is a high risk of nosocomial contamination during care and the reuse of equipment, for both the staff and the patients treated.

Attitude of Health Personnel↗