Describe safe sharps disposal practices in the clinic.

• A. Repeat recapping of needles after use to prevent accidents.
• B. Throw sharps into regular trash.
• C. Use puncture-resistant containers, never recap needles, dispose immediately after use, keep sharps containers closed and at point of care.
• D. Store used sharps in a drawer.

Answer: (C)

The practical approach to sharps safety is to keep used needles and other sharps contained immediately in puncture‑resistant, approved disposal containers that are kept at the point of care and kept closed when not actively adding to them. This arrangement minimizes handling, reduces the risk of needle-stick injuries, and protects everyone from exposure to bloodborne pathogens. The best practice is to place each used sharp directly into the container, never recap needles, and dispose of it promptly after use. Keeping the container closed prevents spills and accidental exposure, and locating it at the point of care ensures disposal occurs right away without carrying contaminated items around the clinic. Using regular trash or storing sharps in a drawer does not provide proper containment and increases the chance of exposure.