Analysis of Healthcare Worker Compliance with Solid Medical Waste Management in the Inpatient

Substandard management of solid medical waste can increase the risk of infections, workplace accidents, and environmental pollution. Healthcare worker compliance is a crucial factor in ensuring the safety of medical waste management in hospitals. This study aimed to analyze factors associated with healthcare worker compliance regarding solid medical waste management in the Inpatient Unit of RSUP Dr. Mohammad Hoesin Palembang. An observational analytic study design with a cross-sectional approach was employed. The study sample consisted of 139 healthcare workers. Data were collected using questionnaires and observation sheets, then analyzed via univariate, bivariate (Chi-square test), and multivariate (multiple logistic regression) methods. The results showed that 104 respondents (74.8%) were compliant, while 35 respondents (25.2%) were non-compliant regarding solid medical waste management. Variables significantly associated with compliance were attitude (p=0.016; OR=2.796), facilities and infrastructure (p=0.006; OR=3.223), training (p=0.007; OR=3.140), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) (p=0.003; OR=8.417), and supervision (p=0.006; OR=3.326). Age, education, knowledge, and tenure were not significantly associated with compliance. Logistic regression results indicated that facilities and infrastructure (p=0.046; Exp(B)=2.428; 95% CI 1.017–5.795) and SOPs (p=0.002; Exp(B)=11.628; 95% CI 2.421–55.848) were independently associated with compliance. SOPs were the most dominant factor. The model explained 26.6% of the variation in compliance based on the Nagelkerke R-Square value. It is concluded that healthcare workers' compliance with solid medical waste management is primarily influenced by the availability of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and facilities. Hospitals need to ensure that SOPs are available and implemented in every unit, equip facilities according to standards, conduct periodic training, and enhance supervision and evaluation.