Which of the following is the correct disposal method for a used syringe after handling it with gloves?

• A. Regular trash
• B. Down the sink
• C. In a sharps container
• D. Reuse after sterilization

Answer: (C)

Used syringes are hazardous sharps that can injure anyone who comes into contact with them, even when you’re wearing gloves. The only safe disposal method is to place the syringe in a dedicated sharps container. These containers are puncture-resistant, leak-proof, and clearly labeled so that the waste is handled appropriately and cannot accidentally expose people to the needle. This keeps healthcare workers and waste handlers protected as the syringe moves through the disposal process.

Regular trash is unsafe because a needle can poke through and expose people to infection. Down the sink is inappropriate and could contaminate plumbing and the environment. Reuse after sterilization is not acceptable because complete sterility cannot be guaranteed, and reusing sharps poses a real risk of infection and cross-contamination.