Read the passage and answer the following question:
Medical waste management is one of the most important yet often overlooked aspects of healthcare. Hospitals, clinics, and laboratories generate large amounts of waste every day, including used syringes, bandages, gloves, and other materials that may be contaminated. If not handled and disposed of properly, this waste can pose serious risks to human health and the environment.
Proper medical waste management involves separating, treating, and safely disposing of different types of waste. Many healthcare institutions follow strict guidelines to ensure that hazardous waste is not mixed with general waste. Incineration, chemical treatment, and secure landfills are some common methods used to manage medical waste.
However, poor management and lack of awareness still lead to unsafe disposal practices in some places. Experts believe that training healthcare workers, strict enforcement of rules, and public awareness are essential to improving medical waste management and protecting communities from potential harm.
The word “contaminated” means:
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Based on the context of the passage, 'contaminated' refers to materials that have been made unsafe due to contact with hazardous substances.