What is the proper disposal method for sharps?

What is the proper disposal method for sharps?

• A. Recap needle and place in trash
• B. Recap and place in sharps container
• C. Place syringe in regular trash
• D. Dispose entire syringe in sharps container

Answer: (D)

The key idea is safe, immediate disposal of used sharps by placing them into a designated sharps container without recapping. Recapping increases the risk of a accidental needle-stick, so it’s unsafe and not allowed. Putting a used syringe with needle into regular trash creates a hazard for anyone who handles the waste. The correct approach is to discard the entire used syringe, with the needle, into a rigid, puncture-resistant sharps disposal container that closes securely, following facility and local regulations for final disposal.

The key idea is safe, immediate disposal of used sharps by placing them into a designated sharps container without recapping. Recapping increases the risk of a accidental needle-stick, so it’s unsafe and not allowed. Putting a used syringe with needle into regular trash creates a hazard for anyone who handles the waste. The correct approach is to discard the entire used syringe, with the needle, into a rigid, puncture-resistant sharps disposal container that closes securely, following facility and local regulations for final disposal.