Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Female Healthcare Workers Regarding Biomedical Waste Management: A Case Study of Mayo Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan

Shahnaz Bhutto; Ifra Zaheer; Faseeha Fatima

doi:10.59890/ijefbs.v3i5.173

Authors

Shahnaz Bhutto Department of Sociology, School of Public Administration, Hohai University, Nanjing
Ifra Zaheer Department of Social Work, Lahore College for Women University, Punjab
Faseeha Fatima Agriculture and Resource & Economics, University of Agriculture Faisalabad

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59890/ijefbs.v3i5.173

Keywords:

Knowledge Attitude Practice (KAP), Biomedical Waste Management, Healthcare Workers, Hospital Waste, Lahore, Pakistan

Abstract

Effective biomedical waste (BMW) management is critical for patient safety, occupational health, and environmental protection, yet it remains a significant challenge in many developing countries. This descriptive, cross-sectional study assessed the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) of female healthcare workers regarding BMW management at Mayo Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan. Data were collected from 200 participants selected via stratified random sampling, using a structured questionnaire. Results revealed a substantial knowledge-practice gap, significantly influenced by professional designation and formal training. Nursing aides demonstrated notably lower mean knowledge scores (70.2 ± 12.5) and good practice rates (21.4%) compared to other cadres. Formal training was the strongest correlate, showing significant positive relationships with knowledge (r=0.45, p<0.01) and practice scores (r=0.38, p<0.01). While knowledge was moderately correlated with practice (r = 0.42, p < 0.01), attitudes were more strongly linked to perceived management support (r = 0.45, p < 0.01) and facility adequacy. High-risk behaviors, particularly needle recapping, exhibited a strong negative correlation with practice scores (r = -0.58, p < 0.01). The study concludes that improving BMW compliance requires a systemic approach integrating mandatory role-specific training, strengthened institutional support, and robust monitoring mechanisms to address both individual competency and organizational barriers.

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