MEDICAL WASTE IN THE ENVIRONMENT - DO ANESTHESIA PERSONNEL HAVE A ROLE TO PLAY

Study Objective: To conduct a feasibility study of the mechanics of re cycling single-use anesthesia breathing systems and practices of anest hesiologists and nurse-anesthetists in a tri-state region. Study Desig n: Two-part, open, prospective analysis using pre-printed questionnair e and cost/time analysis of labor and materials. Setting: Questionnair e sent to 413 anesthesiology departments in Pennsylvania Neu Jersey, a nd Delaware, and hospital/recycling facility for evaluation of time an d cost. Measurements and Main Results: Time to disassemble and sort th e breathing circuits, analysis of costs and obtainable income from byp roducts of recycling, and standard survey questionnaire concerning dem ographic characteristics of respondents and individual department/hosp ital practitioners. Data analysis included analysis of variance and Kr uskal-Wallis tests. Pilot analysis: Sorting of circuits to economic co mponent required ten minutes at an average cost of $1.60. Value of scr aps obtainable was $3.44, leaving a gross margin of $1.84 for a box of 18 circuits. Benefit analysis: Extended reduction in, the regulated m edical waste in our operating room of 16,875 lb, saving $4,387.50 per year. With generation of revenue from scrap, the net gain is $5,994.64 per yr. Questionnaire: Majority (83%) of departments polled would par ticipate in recycling implemented by suppliers. Most respondents would not consider (58%) recycling unless mandated by law. Conclusion: The program described is cost-effective and environmentally beneficial.