PriMera Scientific Medicine and Public Health (ISSN: 2833-5627)

Research Article

Volume 5 Issue 6

Descriptive Analysis of Biomedical Waste Management in Health Care Facilities in the City of Kisangani, Democratic Republic of Congo

Theophile Yanyongo Twangaka*, Joris Losimba Likwela, Marcel Otita Likongo, Alliance Tagoto, Eugene Basandja Longembe, Michel Saliki, Raphael Iseayembele Bosalo, Franck Esuka and John Panda Lukongo Kitronza

November 22, 2024

DOI : 10.56831/PSMPH-05-182

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Abstract

Introduction: Biomedical waste from healthcare facilities poses a serious threat to humans and the environment. Thus, this study aims to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes and practices of healthcare providers in Kisangani regarding the management of this waste.

Materials and methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among 422 professionals and managers of secondary and tertiary health care establishments in Kisangani, from June 15 to August 15, 2024. Data were collected through structured interviews and observations. Categorical variables are expressed as percentages, and quantitative variables according to their distribution (mean ± standard deviation or median and interquartile range).

Results: The study shows that 64.5% of providers have never been trained in biomedical waste management or on infection prevention and control, and 68.7% of those trained were trained more than 36 months ago.

In addition, 93.6% of providers had little knowledge of the definition of biomedical waste management, 82.7% had little understanding of its steps, and 55.2% recognized its importance. In practice, 69.7% did not sort waste, 78.2% did not use coded garbage bags, and 66.8% lacked containers for sharp objects. Furthermore, 65.2% of establishments did not have a storage area and 74.6% considered waste management unsatisfactory. In addition, 71.8% reported a lack of functional incinerators, and 77% the lack of suitable means of transport. Finally, 68.7% reported a lack of water tanks, and 79.6% the lack of a dedicated budget.

Conclusion: The study reveals insufficient management of biomedical waste in health care facilities in Kisangani. There is a need to strengthen staff capacities and invest in infrastructure to ensure health safety and protect the environment.

Keywords: Management; biomedical waste; health care establishments; knowledge; attitudes; practices; City of Kisangani

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