Diagnóstico do processo de gestão de resíduos de serviços de saúde em uma universidade pública brasileira

Abstract

Sustainable growth is a significant challenge for most nations, whether through the application of cost-effectiveness models, recycling, and/or the reuse of products and materials, as well as in waste management. When not carried out correctly, waste management can result in severe negative impacts on the planet. Therefore, this study sought to answer the following question: How is the management process of Healthcare Waste (HWC) conducted in the laboratories of a Brazilian public university? The general objective was to diagnose the solid waste management process in the teaching and research laboratories of a Brazilian public university, with an emphasis on Healthcare Waste. To achieve the proposed objective in this exploratory and descriptive research with a mixed methodological approach, we used a survey to collect data through a validated instrument. The data were analyzed using simple descriptive statistical analysis, aiming to address the research problem through figures, tables, graphs, and other descriptive tools. Through the execution of this work, it was possible to measure how aligned the HWC management practices in the laboratories of the referred higher education institution are with the standards and guidelines that regulate this management. It was observed that 76.5% of the completed forms indicated that the participants are unaware of the final disposal of the generated waste. Furthermore, 15.7% consider the waste handling inadequate, 39.2% believe it needs improvement, and 15.7% have no knowledge, reinforcing the need for the administration to set goals that enable the minimization of the impacts caused by poor management of these waste processes, either through staff training or investments in infrastructure, equipment, and materials essential to achieve excellence in waste management, including potential creation or updating of the Healthcare Waste Management Plan.