Evaluation of knowledge levels of healthcare professionals on hospital waste batteries

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study is to measure the knowledge level of the health personnel working in hospitals about waste batteries. Another aim of our study is to raise awareness on the management of waste batteries in hospitals based on scientific foundations. Materials-Methods: Within the scope of our study, a survey was prepared to measure 7 demographic and 17 knowledge levels, and the waste battery knowledge levels were tried to be measured. Results: According to the findings obtained; It was determined that 69.2% of the participants recognized the waste battery symbol. While 69.2% of the participants could recognize the waste battery symbol, the second most answered option was the recycling symbol. In this direction, it was concluded that the waste battery symbol and the recycling symbol are often confused. It was determined that the rate of recognizing the waste battery symbol was highest in nurses and midwives (87.5%). Other personnel were less familiar with the waste battery symbol (57.5%). Conclusions: It is seen that there is awareness about waste battery management in hospitals, but it is thought that the level of awareness is not sufficient, it varies from unit to unit, and financial losses may occur if effective and efficient management is not carried out.