Exploring the Biomedical Waste Management Practices of Diete-Koki Memorial Hospital Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Abstract

The responsible handling of clinical and biological waste is essential within healthcare systems because such waste directly affect workers safety, the ecosystem integrity, and community wellness. This investigation examines the protocols for managing such waste at Diete-koki Memorial Hospital in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. Its objectives are to review existing methods, pinpoint operational difficulties, and assess healthcare staff's understanding of proper procedures. A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted, and 60 respondents were selected through stratified random sampling from various professional categories of a total population of 120 staffs. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire designed by the researchers and the data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The Findings revealed that while the hospital has established systems for waste segregation, storage, transportation, and disposal, compliance is inconsistent due to operational and resource-related constraints. Although 84% of respondents reported adherence to color-coded segregation, nearly half of the respondents indicated frequent shortages of essential waste management materials. The knowledge of general biomedical waste hazards was high; however, specific procedural knowledge particularly WHO-recommended color coding and storage timelines remained suboptimal. Significant associations were found between staff training and compliance (p = 0.003), as well as between availability of materials and adherence to segregation protocols (p = 0.012). The study concludes that although the staff of Diete-koki Memorial Hospital demonstrates partial compliance with national and international biomedical waste management standards, improvements are needed in resource provision, staff training, supervision, and equipment maintenance. The study recommends strengthening institutional policies, appointing a dedicated waste management officer, and implementing continuous training to enhance safe and sustainable biomedical waste handling practices.