Evaluation of healthcare workers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices in medical waste management within primary healthcare facilities in the UAE

Purpose A cross-sectional study was conducted using convenience sampling to select 338 respondents from 64 primary healthcare centers (PHCs). Primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire comprising both open-ended and closed-ended items. The purpose of this study is to evaluate healthcare workers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to medical waste management in primary healthcare settings in the UAE. Design/methodology/approach Medical waste management (MWM) challenges are intensifying with the growth of hospitals, clinics, laboratories and other healthcare facilities. As a potential source of hazards and infections, healthcare waste remains a major global public health concern. Adequate knowledge of MWM is essential for fostering appropriate attitudes and practices among healthcare workers (HCWs) to ensure the safe handling and disposal of medical waste. However, achieving sustainable development goals related to healthcare waste remains a persistent challenge. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of HCWs in PHCs. cross-sectional study was conducted using convenience sampling to select 338 respondents from 64 PHCs. Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire that included both open- and closed-ended items. Findings The study initially recruited 358 participants, of whom 20 declined to proceed, resulting in a final sample of 338. The majority were female (84%), with the most prevalent age group being over 45 years (30%). Over half of the participants held at least a bachelor’s degree (58%), and most had more than 15 years of work experience. Nursing professionals scored the highest across all KAP categories, with 66.1% demonstrating high knowledge, 74.5% showing high attitude and 71.0% achieving high practice levels – highlighting their central role in MWM. Physicians ranked second, with 19.8% exhibiting high knowledge. Nursing professionals demonstrated strong knowledge and positive attitudes toward MWM, along with satisfactory practices. However, significant gaps remain in waste categorization and container use. Comprehensive training, improved communication and targeted interventions are needed to improve compliance with MWM protocols, particularly in underperforming professional groups. Originality/value Nursing professionals exhibit strong knowledge and positive attitudes toward MWM, with many demonstrating satisfactory practices. However, significant gaps persist in waste categorization and container use, necessitating comprehensive training, improved communication and targeted interventions to enhance compliance with MWM protocols in underperforming areas.