Knowledge about handling and collection of mercury waste from broken thermometers in an IPS level IV
Keywords:
knowledge handling mercury, thermometer, mercuryAbstract
The institutions providing health services (IPS, in spanish) are a major source of mercury emissions, with a significant impact on the environment and human and animal health.
Objective: Characterize the knowledge on handling and colleting mercury waste in an IPS level IV, using as a model broken thermometers.
Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study, in a total of 20 health workers at a level IV IPS form Cali, Colombia, in the period October 2011 to January 2012. We used a checklist based on the EPA and UNDP tools, along with an institutional tool.
Results: The study was conducted in several departments of the IPS. The results are presented in two sections as assessed phases: Phase 1: Planning Process and Phase 2: Collection of mercury. We found that the nursing staff (assistants and chiefs) was the group that showed less interaction both in planning and in the collection processes. Furthermore, the general service, despite being directly involved in both phases, does not perform a comprehensive planning or an efficient collection process.
Conclusions: We conclude that knowledge of hospital staff in the planning and collecting mercury waste from broken thermometers is insufficient. It is urgent to implement adequate procedures manual.
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References
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