author(s)
Rokeya Begum

abstract
Effective management of hospital waste is essential for maintaining environmental safety and preventing infection transmission within healthcare settings. Nurses, as primary caregivers, have a crucial responsibility in ensuring correct waste disposal and following biohazard protocols. This study aims to evaluate nurses’ awareness concerning hospital waste management, including their knowledge of waste segregation, disposal techniques, and adherence to regulatory standards. Utilizing a quantitative research design, data were gathered through structured questionnaires administered to nurses across different hospital environments. The results reveal that although many nurses possess fundamental knowledge of waste disposal, there are notable deficiencies in their comprehension of hazardous waste handling and strict adherence to established protocols. Elements such as training availability, institutional policies, and workload pressures play a significant role in influencing nurses’ compliance with proper waste management practices. The findings emphasize the importance of ongoing educational and training initiatives to improve nurses’ expertise and conformity with waste disposal procedures. Additionally, reinforcing hospital policies and ensuring sufficient resources are vital to enhancing the effectiveness of waste management, ultimately creating a safer setting for both patients and healthcare personnel.