How should sharps be disposed in the OR?

• A. In a general waste container after use.
• B. In a biohazard bag only if contaminated.
• C. In approved sharps containers immediately after use; do not overfill; ensure container is maintained and disposed per protocol.
• D. Cap the container and store for later disposal.

Answer: (C)

The key idea is to prevent injuries by immediately containing every sharp in a dedicated, approved container designed for sharps. Sharps containers are made to be puncture-resistant, leak-proof, closable, and clearly labeled, so once a needle, blade, or other sharp item is used, it goes straight into the container without delay. Doing this right after use minimizes the chance of a needlestick and exposure to pathogens. It also keeps the surrounding environment safe and clean because the container is kept in a secure, accessible spot in the OR.

Not overfilling is part of the safety rule because pushing a sharp beyond the container’s fill line raises the risk of punctures and spills when handling or disposing. The container should be maintained and disposed of according to the facility’s protocol, meaning it’s sealed and collected by the appropriate waste service when it reaches capacity or on the prescribed schedule.

Shades of other options miss the core practice: general waste or biohazard bags are not appropriate for sharps, even if contaminated, because they do not provide the necessary puncture resistance and can create entry routes for injuries and exposure. Capping and storing the container for later disposal delays protection and violates standard procedures.