How is biohazard waste managed in the OR?

• A. Use labeled biohazard bags/containers and follow regulatory guidelines for disposal; separate sharps and liquid waste appropriately.
• B. Biohazard waste can be disposed with regular trash.
• C. Biohazard waste can be dumped into sinks.
• D. Biohazard waste should be stored indefinitely in the OR.

Answer: (D)

Managing biohazard waste in the OR hinges on segregation and proper disposal through clearly labeled, leakproof bags and containers, with sharps placed in dedicated puncture-resistant containers. After contamination, this waste is handled by licensed medical waste vendors and treated according to regulatory guidelines—typically autoclaved or incinerated before final disposal. Liquid waste must be contained and disposed of per facility policy and environmental regulations, not poured down sinks or drains into regular trash. Storing biohazard waste indefinitely in the OR is unsafe and violates safety and environmental rules. The best practice is to use labeled biohazard bags/containers, separate sharps and liquids, and follow approved disposal guidelines.