Certified Medical Assistant (CMA AAMA)Safety and Infection ControlMedium
A medical assistant is reviewing the clinic's sharps disposal policy. Which of the following statements about sharps containers is consistent with OSHA regulations?
- ASharps containers can be emptied and reused after disinfection.
- BSharps containers should be replaced when they are three-quarters full.
- CSharps containers are only required for needles and scalpels, not broken glass.
- DSharps containers should be placed in a convenient location, even if it's high up.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Sharps containers should be replaced when they are three-quarters full.
OSHA regulations specify that sharps containers must be replaced when they are no more than three-quarters full. This prevents overfilling, which increases the risk of needlestick injuries when attempting to force additional sharps into the container.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Sharps containers are designed for single use and disposal.
- C. Broken glass that is contaminated is also considered a sharp and requires disposal in a sharps container.
- D. Should be at eye level or below, within arm's reach, not high up.
Sharps Container Management
Guidelines for the safe use, placement, and disposal of sharps containers to prevent injuries.
- Must be puncture-resistant and leak-proof.
- Replaced when 3/4 full.
- Located at point of use, easily accessible.
Memory trick: Three-Quarters Full, No More!