Examination of Midwifery Students’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors Towards Medical Waste Management

Objective: This study aimed to examine midwifery students’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding medical waste management. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among midwifery students enrolled at a state university during the 2025–2026 academic year (N = 410). A total of 369 students participated in the study. Data were collected using the “Descriptive Information Form” and the “Medical Waste Attitude and Behavior Scale.” Results: The proportions of students who correctly answered questions regarding waste disposal were 84.8% for household waste, 76.7% for packaging waste, 91.3% for medical waste, 85.6% for sharp waste, and 64.2% for hazardous waste. The mean total score of the Medical Waste Attitude and Behavior Scale was 104.66 ± 11.63 (min: 24.00, max: 120.00; median: 106.00). Significant associations were found between scale scores and students’ age, academic year, training status related to medical waste management, and correct responses regarding the disposal of household, packaging, medical, and sharp waste. Conclusion: Overall, midwifery students demonstrated positive attitudes and behaviors toward medical waste management. Senior students showed better knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors compared with first-year students. Improper disposal of medical waste during clinical practice may lead to occupational accidents; therefore, education on medical waste management is critical for students. Keywords: Attitude; behavior; knowledge; medical waste management; midwifery students.