Which practice is correct for safe disposal of sharps in HIV care?

Which practice is correct for safe disposal of sharps in HIV care?

• A. Recapping needles for safety
• B. Use puncture-resistant sharps containers, do not recap needles, and follow local regulations
• C. Dispose of sharps in regular trash
• D. Shake the needle to remove blood before disposal

Answer: (B)

Safe disposal of sharps in HIV care hinges on preventing injuries and following proper waste management. After use, place needles or other sharp items directly into a puncture‑resistant, leak‑proof sharps container that is closable and clearly labeled. Do not recap, bend, or otherwise manipulate needles, since recapping markedly increases the risk of a needlestick injury. Keep the container within reach during care and avoid overfilling it beyond the marked fill line. When the container is full or at the end of a shift, seal it and dispose of it according to local regulations and facility policies, using approved infectious waste channels. Do not put sharps in regular trash or recycling, as this poses significant risk to healthcare workers, waste handlers, and the community and is often illegal. Following these steps minimizes exposure to bloodborne pathogens and keeps HIV care staff and patients safer.

Safe disposal of sharps in HIV care hinges on preventing injuries and following proper waste management. After use, place needles or other sharp items directly into a puncture‑resistant, leak‑proof sharps container that is closable and clearly labeled. Do not recap, bend, or otherwise manipulate needles, since recapping markedly increases the risk of a needlestick injury. Keep the container within reach during care and avoid overfilling it beyond the marked fill line. When the container is full or at the end of a shift, seal it and dispose of it according to local regulations and facility policies, using approved infectious waste channels. Do not put sharps in regular trash or recycling, as this poses significant risk to healthcare workers, waste handlers, and the community and is often illegal. Following these steps minimizes exposure to bloodborne pathogens and keeps HIV care staff and patients safer.