Question

Distinguish between infectious and non-infectious waste.

Answer 1

Medical wastes are classified as infectious wastes and non-infectious waste:

Non-infectious waste: It is also called as offensive waste. It is not harmful and do not result in spread of any infection. Examples include catheters, colostomy bags, etc.

Infectious wastes: This is the waste that contain pathogens which spread diseases from one person to the other. This includes used dressings, swabs and other materials or equipment that have been in contact with infected patients or excreta. It also includes liquid waste such as faeces, urine, blood and other body secretions.