Logo image
Back
Recycling and Reducing Waste Burden in Operating Rooms
Dissertation

Recycling and Reducing Waste Burden in Operating Rooms

Denny Tran
University of Iowa
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), University of Iowa
Spring 2026
pptx
Tran_FinalPoster_Denny_TranDownloadView
Open Access Free to read and download

Abstract

Background: The healthcare sector contributes to 4-8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with operating rooms (ORs) generating up to 30% of a hospital’s total waste. Barriers to recycling in the OR include lack of staff knowledge, insufficient time, and absence of standardized policies. Without targeted intervention, recyclable materials such as sterile blue wrap and plastic bottles continue to contribute to landfill waste. Purpose: To implement a recycling initiative of sterile blue wrap and plastic bottles across the main ORs at an academic medical center to decrease waste burden and reduce environmental impact while maintaining safe patient care. Methods: Guided by the Iowa Model, green recycling bags were distributed to approximately 30 ORs alongside instructional posters and two staff education sessions. Anonymous pre- and post-implementation surveys assessed staff perceptions, knowledge, and attitudes. In-person audits measured recycling weight at baseline during pre-implementation, and at one, three, and six months during implementation. Survey data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Welch’s t-test. Recycling outcomes were evaluated by percentage change in total weight. Findings: Total recyclable weight increased by 106%, 54%, and 116% above baseline at months one, three, and six, respectively. All available unit staff were surveyed (n = 80 pre, n= 27 post) and awareness of recycling policies increased from 53% to 89% post-implementation. Perceived ease of recycling improved from a mean of 2.56 to 3.6 (out of 5), and lack of knowledge was eliminated as a reported barrier post-intervention. Discussion: Improvements in recycling behavior was driven more by reduced workflow barriers than attitude changes, as staff already held consistently high regard for recycling importance. Insufficient time and resistance from peers remain as persistent barriers to recycling, suggesting that integrating recycling into OR workflows and engaging unit champions may support long-term sustainability.
 blue wrap environment sustainability operating room perioperative recycling

Details

Metrics

1 Record Views
Logo image