IMPACT OF MEDICAL WASTES MANAGEMENT ON PREVENTION OF INFECTIONS IN BENADIR HOSPITALS IN MOGADISHU, SOMALIA

Abstract

Medical waste management is a global concern, affecting healthcare systems worldwide. The improper handling of medical waste can lead to the transmission of infections, endangering public health. Improper disposal of medical waste can also have adverse environmental effects. Studies from countries like China have explored the environmental contamination resulting from improper waste disposal practices. The African continent faces unique challenges when it comes to medical waste management. These challenges include inadequate infrastructure, limited resources, and varying levels of healthcare facilities and services across different regions. The Aim of the study was to assess the impact of Medical Wastes Management on prevention of infections in Benadir Hospitals in Mogadishu, Somalia. Both qualitative and quantitative designs were adopted in this study as well as cross-sectional study such as observation method, Overall, 67.1% of the respondents were aware that the hospital had HCWM policies and procedures though they were not comprehensive. the respondents who admitted their lack of practice of source segregation of medical wastes in this study suggests that there is lack of unison in the practice of waste segregation among the health care workers in Benadir Hospital. the respondents indicated that HCWM policies and/or plans were not being reviewed or updated at least once a year. To enhance segregation of wastes at the source and prevent careless handling of injurious wastes, the use of color-coded waste bins for the different types of medical wastes and brown receptacles for collection of general, infectious and hazardous wastes respectively) should be encouraged and the HCWM policies to be reviewed.