NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)Safety and ComplianceMedium
A phlebotomy technician is reviewing a new policy regarding the disposal of used blood collection needles. Which of the following actions is compliant with OSHA's guidelines for sharps disposal?
- ARecapping the needle before discarding it in a biohazard bag.
- BBending the needle to prevent reuse before discarding it in a general waste bin.
- CPlacing the needle in a puncture-resistant, labeled sharps container immediately after use.
- DRemoving the needle from the syringe and placing it in a regular trash can.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Placing the needle in a puncture-resistant, labeled sharps container immediately after use.
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) guidelines mandate that all used sharps, including blood collection needles, must be disposed of immediately after use in a puncture-resistant, leak-proof, labeled sharps container to prevent needlestick injuries.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Recapping needles is a major cause of needlestick injuries and is strictly prohibited by OSHA.
- B. Bending or breaking needles is prohibited as it increases the risk of accidental punctures or splashes.
- D. Removing needles from syringes or disposing of them in regular trash cans is extremely dangerous and non-compliant with safety regulations.
OSHA Sharps Disposal
Guidelines established by OSHA to ensure the safe handling and disposal of contaminated sharps to prevent occupational exposures.
- Sharps must be discarded immediately after use.
- Containers must be puncture-resistant, leak-proof, and clearly labeled.
- Never recap, bend, or break used needles.
Memory trick: Sharp objects go in the RIGHT bin, RIGHT now!