Determination of Medical Waste Attitudes and Behaviors of Students Studying in the First and Emergency Aid Program

Background: Medical waste poses occupational, environmental, and public health risks when improperly managed. Healthcare students require appropriate knowledge and attitudes before entering clinical settings.

Methods: This single-group quasi-experimental pretest-posttest study included 68 first- and second-year First and Emergency Aid students in Türkiye, conducted from March 10 to July 1, 2025. Data were collected using a personal information form and the 24-item Medical Waste Attitude and Behavior Scale. Participants received structured education on medical waste management, segregation, infection control, and legislation.

Results: Mean awareness scores increased from 3.26±0.55 to 3.99±0.28 (t=10.09, p<0.001), while total scale scores increased from 3.36±0.42 to 3.92±0.18 (t=11.53, p<0.001). Behavioral (Z=-5.548), cognitive (Z=-5.978), and attention (Z=-4.296) scores also improved significantly (all p<0.001).

Conclusion: Structured education significantly improved medical waste-related awareness and behaviors.