Evaluation of Knowledge, Awareness, and Attitude on Biomedical Waste Management Among Nursing Students in A Tertiary Care Centre

Background: Biomedical waste management is a critical component of hospital infection control and environmental safety. Nursing students must possess adequate knowledge, awareness, and a positive attitude toward safe waste handling practices. However, gaps in training and practical exposure during early nursing education may compromise effective implementation. The aim is to assess the knowledge, awareness, and attitude regarding biomedical waste management among nursing students in a tertiary healthcare centre. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted over a period of one month among 174 nursing students at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Participants were selected using universal sampling after obtaining informed consent. Data were collected using a pre-validated, structured questionnaire comprising sections on knowledge (definitions, segregation, color coding, hazards), awareness (regulatory guidelines, disposal methods), and attitude (perception towards safe practices and responsibility). Each correct response in the knowledge and awareness sections was scored, and attitude was assessed using a Likert scale. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods. Comparisons between first- and second-year students were performed using chi-square test, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Adequate knowledge was observed in 87 (50.0%) students, with a significantly higher proportion among second-year students (57; 66.3%) compared to first-year students (30; 34.1%) (p = 0.001). Adequate awareness was noted in 95 (54.6%) students, again higher among second-year students (62; 72.1%) than first-year students (33; 37.5%) (p = 0.001). Knowledge was highest for definition (131; 75.3%) and segregation (120; 69.0%), while it was lowest for storage time (82; 47.1%). A positive attitude was observed in 134 (77.0%) students, with 160 (92.0%) expressing willingness to undergo training. Knowledge showed a statistically significant association with year of study, training exposure, and awareness level (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The study reveals that while the attitude towards biomedical waste management among nursing students is largely positive, gaps in knowledge and awareness persist, especially among first-year students. Structured training programs, early curriculum integration, and practical exposure are essential to enhance competency in biomedical waste management.

Keywords: Attitude, Awareness, Biomedical waste management, Knowledge, Nursing students, Tertiary care centre.