Knowledge of Management of Health Waste in COVID-19 for Environmental Impact

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted healthcare waste (HCW) generation, raising concerns about proper management. This study investigated healthcare professionals' knowledge of waste management during the pandemic and its environmental impact. The research was conducted with 55 healthcare professionals in a public hospital in Manaus, Amazonas. The results showed that although most respondents recognized the existence of protocols for handling contaminated waste, many were unaware of the Healthcare Waste Management Plan (HCWMP) and had not received adequate training on the subject. The lack of knowledge may compromise proper waste disposal and increase negative environmental impacts.