Análise do contributo da educação ambiental na gestão dos resíduos hospitalares no Centro de Saúde de Ndlavela

Abstract

The research focused on the analysis of the contribution of Environmental Education in Hospital Waste Management at the Ndlavela Health Center (CSN). Its main objective was to analyze the contribution of Environmental Education in Hospital Waste Management at the Ndlavela Health Center. In methodological terms, the research adopted a qualitative approach of a descriptive nature. Data were obtained through semi-structured interviews and non- participant structured observation. The research sample consisted of 10 CSN employees chosen through non-probabilistic convenience sampling. The results, which were analyzed using Bardin's (2016) content analysis technique, indicate that in CSN there are environmental and human health impacts resulting from Hospital Waste. It was also possible to identify the adoption of some environmental education strategies (sensitization lectures and cleaning days) in Hospital Waste management. We conclude that Environmental Education is a valuable tool in Hospital Waste management. However, due to the existence of garbage in an inappropriate place, unmarked garbage containers, etc. the study recommends hospital managers to hire environmental educators, employees are encouraged to raise Hospital Waste management issues with clients, and users are advised to properly deposit their Hospital Waste.