Naslov
The Use of Mercury-Based Medical Devices Across Croatian Healthcare Facilities

Autori
Janev Holcer, Nataša ; Maričević, Marija ; Miočić- Juran Anamarija

Izvornik
Arhiv za higijenu rada i toksikologiju (0004-1254) 63 (2012), 1; 41-47

Vrsta, podvrsta i kategorija rada
Radovi u časopisima, članak, stručni

Ključne riječi
mercury ; thermometers ; sphygmomanometers ; nurses ; occupational exposure

Sažetak
Mercury is a toxic element directly associated with healthcare delivery. In 2009, this study assessed the use of mercury-based medical devices, including thermometers and sphygmomanometers, and their disposal after being broken in Croatian healthcare facilities. The questionnaire addressing the use of mercury-based medical devices, waste management, preferences between mercury-based and electronic devices, and the knowledge on mercury toxicity was filled by ward nurses affiliated with 40 (71.4 %) out of 56 approached healthcare facilities, out of which only one fully abandoning the use of mercury- containing medical devices. As many as 84.6 % of the examinees believed that broken devices do not give rise to their mercury exposure, even though 90 % of stated they were fully aware of mercury toxicity. Due to the precision and reliability of mercury-based devices and the lack of education on electronic ones, 69.4 % of the nurses prefer mercury-containing devices. Breaking of thermometers and sphygmomanometers is common at healthcare facilities. The number of broken thermometers and sphygmomanometers was estimated at up to 278 and 5 per month, respectively. Proper disposal of mercury from broken medical devices occurred at only 18 (46, 2 %) of surveyed healthcare facilities. Nurses, who most often handle such devices and collect mercury spills, are primarily exposed to mercury vapours via inhalation. Croatia has adopted regulations intended for the reduction of mercury exposure in both living and working environment, e.g. EU Directive 76/769/EEC on reduction of production and market circulation of mercury-based devices. The results of this study suggest the need for education of all healthcare professionals, especially nurses, on the proper management of broken mercury-based medical devices. In order to reduce potential exposures and improve occupational health, all Croatian healthcare facilities should implement guidelines for staff protection and programs to reduce the use of mercury-based devices and replace them with available substitutes.

Izvorni jezik
Engleski

Znanstvena područja
Javno zdravstvo i zdravstvena zaštita

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