Management of waste generated in home care by the Family Health Strategy

This study aimed to analyze the management of waste generated by home care. Data were collected through observation of care provided by professionals and users and/or caregivers. Data were recorded on a checklist developed according to the recommendations of RDC 306. The following wastes were generated: syringes (38.1%), needles (36.5%), adhesive plasters (31.7%), gauze (31.7%) and lancets (28.5%). The residues of group A were not segregated in all opportunities and group E were segregated 100% and 10.5% by professionals and users, respectively. It is concluded that, given the inadequacies found, wide collective discussion is required for the proposal of public policies that address the specific waste management of home health services, aiming to provide safety to workers, community and the environment.