Objective

To analyze the process of integrated management of hospital and similar waste in a Service Provider Institution in the municipality of Los Patios, Norte de Santander. The established criteria in Decree 351 of 2014 and Resolution 1164 of 2002 were used.

Method

Mixed research was conducted using a combination of qualitative and quantitative paradigms. The study employed a field and bibliographic design at a descriptive level, involving a population of 90 officials assigned to the hospital entity. The data collection techniques utilized were interviews, surveys, and direct observation. Quantitative data was processed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative information supported the triangulation of observations.

Results

First, the study revealed that 53.92% of the waste generated was classified as non-hazardous, while 46.08% was categorized as hazardous waste. Among the hazardous waste, a significant proportion of 96.60% was identified as infectious or biohazardous waste. Furthermore, the criteria considered for the management and disposal of hospital waste were described.

Conclusions

The health institution in the municipality of Los Patios has implemented an Integral Management Plan for Hospital and Similar Waste, which is currently in progress. However, there is a need to propose specific improvements to enhance its operations due to the identification of certain weaknesses. These weaknesses primarily pertain to the management of waste itself, as well as the lack of information among some staff members regarding the plan, its significance, and its proper management.