Exploring Changes in Healthcare Waste Management Post COVID-19: A qualitative study in a Maldivian health facility

Fazeela Moosa; Zamzaliza Abdul Mulud; Mariyam Nazviya; Abdul Azeez Hameed

doi:10.21834/e-bpj.v10i34.7342

Authors

Fazeela Moosa Centre for Nursing Education, Faculty of Health Sciences, University Teknologi MARA
Zamzaliza Abdul Mulud Centre for Nursing Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam Campus, 42300 Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
Mariyam Nazviya Policy and International Relations, Villa College, Maldives
Abdul Azeez Hameed Dhamanaveshi Urban Primary Healthcare Centre, Maldives

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21834/e-bpj.v10i34.7342

Keywords:

Waste management, COVID-19, Health facilities

Abstract

Healthcare waste management (HCWM) practice is a fundamental activity for all institutions. Improper handling of healthcare waste (HCW) poses health risks and environmental damage. Thus, a qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with selected participants in a Maldivian health facility to explore HCWM practices before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The content analysis technique was employed to analyze the data generated. The study results identified significant changes to HCWM, including institutional practices and organizational culture, as well as challenges and key interventions that required proper handling, such as training and education, clear guidelines, and institutional changes. Implications are addressed.

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