Question

A major threat to healthcare workers is blood-contaminated sharps. As a safety precaution, the nurse should discard a used syringe in a:

a. Regular trash bin
b. Sharps container
c. Paper bag
d. Bedside table

Answer 1

The nurse should discard a used syringe in a sharps container to properly handle the biohazard and maintain safety protocols in healthcare settings.

Step-by-step explanation:

A major threat to healthcare workers is exposure to blood-contaminated sharps. To ensure safety for both the workers and the environment, a used syringe, which falls under the category of a biohazard due to the potential for carrying disease-causing organisms, must be disposed of in a sharps container. Regular trash bins, paper bags, or leaving it on a bedside table are not suitable disposal methods and pose a significant hazard. Following proper disposal protocols is critical in the medical setting, where maintaining a sterile field and using aseptic techniques prevent the spread of infections. Personnel handling such materials are required to use personal protective equipment, including a protective coat, face protection, and cut-resistant gloves. All exposed skin must be properly washed, and any contaminated waste should be treated through incineration or autoclaving to ensure safety.