Final answer:
A nurse should dispose of removed surgical staples by placing them in designated sharps disposal containers, following proper medical waste protocols that might include autoclaving or incineration. Protective gear must be worn, and any skin contact with contaminated materials should be followed by washing and disinfecting procedures.
Step-by-step explanation:
After a nurse removes surgical staples from a surgical incision, they must handle them as medical waste, considering they are contaminated. Such materials should not be discarded in regular trash bins. Instead, the staples need to be placed in designated sharps disposal containers, which are typically puncture-resistant, labeled, and used for sharps waste, including needles, scalpels, and staples. These containers are then handled according to the healthcare facility's protocol for disposable sharp instruments, which often involves autoclaving or incineration.
In addition, the nurse should wear protective gear, which includes a protective coat, face protection, and cut-resistant gloves, to minimize the risk of injury and infection. In the event of skin contact with contaminated material, immediate washing with detergent and warm water is advised, followed by disinfection with 1 N NaOH or a 1:10 dilution of bleach for thorough decontamination.
Proper disposal and handling of medical waste such as surgical staples are crucial to maintain a safe environment for both healthcare personnel and patients. It prevents potential injuries and the spread of infection.