In recent studies, 80% of water streams tested positive for pharmaceutical waste.
This was also found true in surface water tested in Washington State. Researchers
are finding environmental health effects to wildlife such as feminization of fish
due to hormones and other medicines found in the water. Although some pharmaceutical
waste stream is due to excretion and family disposal, the majority of pharmaceutical
waste is due to improper pharmaceutical disposal into landfills or the sewage system
which does not have the technology to filter such chemicals. It has been determined
that incineration, at this time, is the best disposal method according to the Department
of Ecology.
The Washington State Department of Ecology hosted a statewide teleconference on
June 21, 2007 regarding the proper management of pharmaceutical waste in healthcare
settings. Approximately 120 participants attended six locations around the
state.
Ecology has developed an Interim Enforcement Policy for Pharmaceutical Waste Management
in Healthcare to help hospitals and retail pharmacies:
- Protect human health and the environment.
- Simplify pharmaceutical waste management.
- Maintain compliance with environmental regulations.
Nurses have a professional obligation to reduce pharmaceutical waste streams, whether
it’s in the home or workplace, to improve environmental conditions. We have
an opportunity to provide a leadership role in assisting medical centers develop,
implement and evaluate policies and procedures for compliance with the new Interim
Enforcement Policy for Pharmaceutical Waste Management. If we do not participate
in the development of policies and procedures that directly affect our practice,
other professions will determine what is best for nursing practice. Nurses
know nursing practice best. Be an active participant.
If you would like to view the presentations from the seminar go to
www.ecy.wa.gov/mercury/hospitals/seminar_proceedings.html and click on underlined
titles of the presentation you’d like to view at the bottom of the page.
