Infectious Waste Management

Everyday, thousands of hospitals around the country produce thousands of tons of infectious waste. The disposal of this waste is considered one of America's primary environmental problems. Drawing on the author's 20 years of experience as an administrator, department director, and staff consultant, Infectious Waste Management offers an insider's approach to medical waste management. This reference includes information on how to manage medical waste practically. It gives simple, effective procedures on how to a establish or revitalize a waste management program. Written in a friendly, understandable style, the book covers everything from working with administration to provide necessary resources to getting employees to work effectively. It describes cost-containing guidelines and establishing regulatory compliance. This invaluable guide discusses proper department procedures and methods to monitor systems. The book contains "education modules" or short education tools which can be used to convey important task-oriented information to staff. The book is divided into three sections according to the intended audience. Text in the first section is directed toward hospital administrators and members of the infection control and safety committees. The second is primarily for department directors and focuses on writing infectious waste management procedures for the departments of environmental services and maintenance. This section also addresses the essential functions of program monitoring and waste tracking or manifesting. The third part is for people responsible for educating staff. Together, these sections present an effective, full-staff approach to infectious waste management. The book has a number of appendices, which restate important points made throughout the book and provide sample policies, procedures, letters, memos, reference cards, and other management or education tools that will prove helpful.