Tips on handling potentially hazardous medical waste

Sometimes seemingly minute details can fall through the cracks


When healthcare facilities focused on the policies, procedures and regulations for disposing of infectious medical waste, sometimes minute details can fall through the cracks, according to an article on the Infection Control Today website.

For example, considering how much waste is disposed into each biocontamination bag. It's advisable to only fill trashbags two-thirds of the way. 

There is less risk of contaminated waste spilling out of the bag, and staff are less likely to sustain an injury from a bag that is too heavy.

On University of Nebraska Medical Center's biocontainment unit, healthcare workers double-bag all solid waste in clear autoclaved bags. Once the bag is secured, a staff member (in full PPE) places the bag in a pass through autoclave located within the isolation unit and/or to a waste holding container. Once sterilized, the waste is placed in a red biohazard bag, bag top twisted, goose necked and placed inside a medical waste shipping box for incineration, according to the article.

Read the article.

 

 



November 13, 2015


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

The Proper Way to Use Cleaning Carts

Environmental services use cleaning carts every day, but they are often overlooked. Keeping them clean and properly stocked is key to preventing infection in healthcare facilities.


JPS Health Network Breaks Ground on New Hospital

The project includes construction of a new inpatient hospital and expansion of the existing Pavilion.


Saint Anthony Hospital Reports Email Breach

They are not aware of any evidence that any information has been misused as a result of this email incident.


Healthcare Facilities are Shifting Toward More Holistic Designs

As healthcare moves toward prevention and long-term wellness, the Alice L. Walton Healthcare Campus illustrates how design strategies are evolving to support this transition. 


Froedtert Hospital Unveils Six-Level Parking Structure

The new garage, which boasts a glass-enclosed design and modern parking management technology, elevates the parking experience.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.