Kenya, like many other developing countries, faces significant challenges in managing waste, particularly in healthcare facilities. The Lower Kabete Health Centre, a public health facility located in Nairobi, Kenya, is a case in point. This news examines the waste management practices at the health centre and explores the implications of the findings for national policy on waste management in Kenya.
Introduction
Waste management is a critical aspect of environmental health, and healthcare facilities generate a significant amount of waste that requires proper disposal. In Kenya, the healthcare sector generates an estimated 150,000 tonnes of waste per year, with a significant portion of it being hazardous. The Lower Kabete Health Centre, which serves a population of over 50,000 people, is no exception. The health centre generates a substantial amount of waste, including infectious waste, sharps, and non-infectious waste.
Methodology
This study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design to assess the waste management practices at the Lower Kabete Health Centre. Data was collected through observations, interviews with healthcare workers, and review of documents. The study also used a waste assessment tool to quantify the amount and types of waste generated at the health centre.
Results
The study found that the Lower Kabete Health Centre lacks a comprehensive waste management plan, and waste disposal practices are inadequate. The health centre generates an average of 20 kg of waste per day, with 60% of it being non-infectious waste, 20% infectious waste, and 20% sharps. The study also found that:
- Waste segregation is not practiced, and all types of waste are disposed of together.
- Waste is stored in open pits or in poorly constructed waste bins, which are often overflowing.
- Incineration is the primary method of waste disposal, but the incinerator is often not functioning, leading to accumulation of waste.
- Healthcare workers lack training on proper waste handling and disposal practices.
- The health centre lacks personal protective equipment (PPE) for handling waste.
Discussion
The findings of this study highlight the need for improved waste management practices at the Lower Kabete Health Centre. The lack of a comprehensive waste management plan, inadequate waste segregation, and poor waste disposal practices pose significant risks to the health of healthcare workers, patients, and the environment. The study’s findings are consistent with those of other studies in Kenya, which have shown that waste management is a significant challenge in healthcare facilities.
Implications for National Policy
The findings of this study have significant implications for national policy on waste management in Kenya. The study recommends that:
- The Ministry of Health develops and implements a comprehensive national policy on waste management in healthcare facilities.
- Healthcare facilities are provided with adequate resources, including funding, equipment, and training, to implement proper waste management practices.
- Waste segregation and disposal practices are standardized and enforced in all healthcare facilities.
- Healthcare workers are trained on proper waste handling and disposal practices.
- The use of incineration as a method of waste disposal is phased out and replaced with more environmentally friendly methods, such as autoclaving and recycling.
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Waste management is a critical aspect of environmental health, and healthcare facilities in Kenya face significant challenges in managing waste. The Lower Kabete Health Centre case study highlights the need for improved waste management practices and has significant implications for national policy. The study’s recommendations, if implemented, can help to reduce the risks associated with poor waste management and promote a healthier environment for healthcare workers, patients, and the community at large.
It is essential for the Kenyan government to take a proactive approach to addressing the waste management challenges in healthcare facilities and to develop and implement a comprehensive national policy on waste management. This can be achieved through a multi-sectoral approach that involves the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Environment, and other stakeholders.
Ultimately, effective waste management in healthcare facilities is critical for promoting public health, preventing environmental pollution, and protecting the well-being of healthcare workers and the community. By prioritizing waste management, Kenya can take a significant step towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promoting a healthier and more sustainable future for all.
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