Which item should go in the sharps container to dispose of sharp medical waste?

Which item should go in the sharps container to dispose of sharp medical waste?

• A. Alcohol wipes
• B. Cotton
• C. Syringes
• D. Tape

Answer: (C)

Disposal of sharp medical waste uses a container that is rigid, puncture-resistant, and closable to prevent injuries and contamination. A syringe has a needle and can cut or pierce through skin or container, so it must go into a sharps container. Other items like alcohol wipes, cotton, and tape don’t have sharp points, so they’re not placed in the sharps container (they’re usually disposed of with regular waste or according to local policy). Remember to never recap needles and to keep the container properly closed and not overfilled.

Disposal of sharp medical waste uses a container that is rigid, puncture-resistant, and closable to prevent injuries and contamination. A syringe has a needle and can cut or pierce through skin or container, so it must go into a sharps container. Other items like alcohol wipes, cotton, and tape don’t have sharp points, so they’re not placed in the sharps container (they’re usually disposed of with regular waste or according to local policy). Remember to never recap needles and to keep the container properly closed and not overfilled.