https://doi.org/10.36719/2789-6919/43/117-121
Nuray Abakarova
Center for Distance Learning
https://orcid.org/0009-0008-7667-0226
nurayabakarova2002@gmail.com
Svetlana Gadirova
Azerbaijan State Pedagogical University
https://orcid.org/0009-0008-6417-2115
svetlanaqedirova@icloud.com
Medical Waste Management Practices in Public Hospitals:
Current Situation
Abstract
The management of medical waste is a crucial aspect of the healthcare system, with significant implications for environmental safety and public health. Proper handling of medical waste in public hospitals is essential to minimize infection risks, ensure ecological security, and maintain overall sanitary conditions.
This paper examines the current practices of medical waste management in public hospitals, reviewing national and international regulations governing this field. The study analyzes key stages such as waste segregation, collection, transportation, disposal, and sterilization. Additionally, it evaluates the legal framework and challenges associated with medical waste management in Azerbaijan.Findings indicate that while certain protocols exist in public hospitals for medical waste handling, their full implementation and monitoring mechanisms require improvement. Issues such as resource limitations, staff training deficiencies, and improper disposal practices pose significant challenges to effective waste management. The paper concludes with recommendations for adopting more efficient waste management models based on international best practices and strengthening regulatory frameworks. These measures aim to enhance environmental safety and improve sanitary conditions in public hospitals.
Keywords: medical waste management, public hospitals, environmental safety, waste disposal regulations, healthcare waste practices