Disposal of waste policy promotes health

Question 1

How will staffs handle hazardous substances at their care settings?

Answer 1

• The staff will have training on agreed ways of working for handling hazardous substances following COSHH guidelines.

Question 2

Give some examples of chemical and biological hazards found in health, social care and child care environments::

Answer 2

• cleaning materials, liquids, sprays.
• Disinfectants.
• body fluids- urine, faeces, blood.
• Medication.
• Clinical waste such as dressings.
• Contaminated clothing, towels, bed linen.

Question 3

Give examples of HAZARDOUS WASTE:

Answer 3

• Needles
• Body waste
• Expired medication
  All examples in nursing homes, GP surgeries, dental practices or hospitals.

Question 4

How to dispose of hazardous waste:

Answer 4

Hazardous waste: Clinical waste and dressings
Method of this disposable waste: Yellow bags; incinerated/burnt.

Hazardous waste: body fluids,urine, faeces
Method of this disposable waste: flushed down the toilet.

Hazardous waste: medication- out of date or no longer required.
Method of this disposable waste: taken to local pharmacy or GP surgery.

Hazardous waste: needles, sharps, syringes.
Method of this disposable waste: Yellow (sharps) box or contact local council to collect.

Hazardous waste: soiled linen
Method of this disposable waste: Red bags put directly into the washing machine; bags dissolve. Washing at high temperature.

Question 5

What are the main points of agreed procedures about handling medication?
(ORSARTD)

Answer 5

• Ordering: the process should be quick and efficient.
• Receiving: a list of medication ordered should be checked against that received.
• Storing: controlled drugs (CDs) must be stored in a locked cupboard or might be kept by the individual if self-administering.
• Administering: ensure the right person receives the right dose of the right medication at the right time.
• Recording: Use the medicine administration record (MAR), which charts the administration of drugs. Make sure the records are clear.
• Transfer: medication has to stay with the individual as it is their property, so if they are transferred to another care setting the medication will go with them.
• Disposal: return unwanted medication to a pharmacy. Care homes must use a licensed waste management company.