Question

A nurse is assisting with teaching a newly licensed nurse about needlestick injuries. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

1) Recap needles before disposal.
2) Place used needles directly in the regular trash.
3) Dispose of needles in a puncture-resistant container.
4) Reuse needles if they appear clean.

Answer 1

The nurse should include the instruction to dispose of needles in a puncture-resistant container when teaching the newly licensed nurse about needlestick injuries.

Step-by-step explanation:

When instructing a newly licensed nurse about needlestick injuries, the nurse should emphasize safe practices to prevent accidental exposures. The correct instruction is: 3) Dispose of needles in a puncture-resistant container. This recommendation aligns with standard precautions and infection control practices. Using puncture-resistant containers, often referred to as sharps containers, ensures the safe disposal of needles, minimizing the risk of accidental needlestick injuries. It is crucial to avoid practices such as recapping needles, placing them directly in regular trash, or reusing needles, as these actions significantly increase the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Proper disposal methods contribute to a safer healthcare environment and protect healthcare workers from potential occupational hazards.