KNOWLEDGE ABOUT DISPOSAL OF MEDICATIONS FROM PROFESSIONALS AND USERS IN A HEALTH UNIT
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.16891/2317-434X.v13.e5.a2025.id2271Keywords:
Family Health Unit, Risks, EnvironmentAbstract
This study describes the level of knowledge of health professionals and users of a Family Health Unit (USF) regarding the proper disposal of medications. This is a descriptive, cross-sectional, quantitative study carried out from April to August 2023. The study was developed at USF Chico Mendes, located in the Areias neighborhood, Recife - PE. Data collection was carried out using a specially designed form and applied to 41 people. Data were arranged in tables and graphs using an Excel for Windows spreadsheet, version 2010, and data analysis was performed using Epi-Info software, version 6.04. Most of the interviewees stated that they were aware of the risks of improperly disposing of medications, but they did not know the specific risks. In addition, most of them did not receive information about how to dispose of medications correctly to minimize or prevent risks to the environment. It is concluded that it is necessary to carry out training on the correct disposal of medicines, explaining the correct way to dispose of medicines, and the risks and damage caused to the environment, since most people are unaware of the severity of the risks.