This diagram outlines Nebraska Methodist Hospital's current drug waste process. Clearly, the appropriate management of pharmacy waste is a much more complicated process than simply depositing the wasted drug and its corresponding packaging into the right waste stream.  Following the myriad of regulations that apply to pharmaceutical waste management is a challenging task. Keep in mind that standards differ slightly on a state-by-state basis, making it crucial to understand all regulations that pertain to your facility. Some of the most common mistakes made in the waste management process are the inappropriate disposal of RCRA waste as chemotherapy waste and the inappropriate disposal of non-hazardous drug waste as biohazardous, or red bag, waste. Because it is so easy for improperly disposed of waste to end up in our water supply, the importance of managing your pharmaceuticals with a cradle-to-grave approach cannot be overstated.

Click here to view the Nebraska Methodist Hospital's current drug waste process.