Abstract

Reuse of used syringes due to improper disposal is a common practice especially in the developing countries, including Pakistan. Major aim of the study was to assess the level of knowledge of students towards reuse of used syringes, their improper disposal and the resulting blood borne infections due to such wrong practices. A total of 40 students were selected for the study. A questionnaire was circulated among the students of microbiology at Jinnah University for Women, Karachi, Pakistan. The data collected was compiled and statistical analysis through SPSS software was done. Out of 40 students selected, 97.5% students have knowledge of reuse of used or disposed off syringes, 75% knows major source of health care waste (HCW), about 92.5% were aware of the blood borne infections that results from improperly disposed off syringes, 52.5% realizes that 3rd world countries do not have specially designed mechanism for health care waste management (HCWM), 82.5% were in opinion of discontinuing same health practices in health care industries and about 100% students showed their willingness to aware people of wrong practices in the community and to spread knowledge about proper disposal of health care waste (HCW). The study reveals that majority of the students of microbiology at the Jinnah University are aware of reuse of syringes and outlook for minimizing wrong health care  activities. However, there is a need of comprehensive mass education program regarding sharp waste disposal, not in a single institute but at the grass root level.

Key words: Awareness, health care waste, health care waste management, syringes, sharp waste disposal.