Analysis of Solid Medical Waste Management at Talang Ratu Public Health Center, Palembang City

Abstract

Inadequate waste management in healthcare facilities can negatively impact healthcare workers, patients, and the environment. As a daily healthcare service unit, Talang Ratu Public Health Center is required to manage medical waste properly. This study aims to analyze the solid medical waste management process at Talang Ratu Public Health Center. It is a descriptive study using a qualitative approach to explore the management practices, facilities, and infrastructure involved in handling solid medical waste. Eight informants were selected through purposive sampling, consisting of two sanitarians/health workers, one cleaning staff member, and five heads of outpatient departments. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentation, and analyzed using triangulation techniques. Sources of medical waste include the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) unit, pharmacy, laboratory, and dental clinic. Overall, the waste management process has been adequately implemented in accordance with the Ministry of Environment and Forestry Regulation No. 6 of 2021. Waste is segregated using color-coded containers and transported after service hours by staff wearing full personal protective equipment (PPE). However, transportation is still done manually due to the lack of dedicated trolleys. There is also a health risk as temporary waste storage lasts between two weeks to one month without proper temperature control. The study recommends providing trolleys to facilitate transportation, establishing designated transportation routes to minimize spill risks, and installing temperature control systems in storage areas to prevent pathogen proliferation. These improvements are necessary to enhance the safety and efficiency of solid medical waste management at the health center.