How should contaminated linen be handled to prevent exposure?

• A. Place in leak-proof biohazard bags or containers; avoid shaking; transport to laundry per policy.
• B. Place in standard laundry bags and shake to remove debris.
• C. Send contaminated linen for disposal as medical waste with no processing.
• D. Rinse and reuse.

Answer: (A)

Contaminated linen can carry infectious material, so containment and minimizing exposure are essential. Place the linens in leak-proof biohazard bags or containers, seal them, and label appropriately. Do not shake the bag, since agitation can aerosolize fluids and spread contaminants into the environment. After containment, transport the bag to the laundry following the facility’s policy so the items are properly cleaned and disinfected by trained personnel. This approach protects healthcare workers and prevents environmental contamination. Other methods either fail to contain fluids, spread contaminants through shaking, bypass proper decontamination, or reuse contaminated linen, all of which increase exposure risk.