Safe and Effective Care Environment—Safety and Infection Control

The nurse has given a client an injection and then notes that the sharps container is full. Which is the correct action by the nurse?

Posted on by NCLEX.ME Nurse
  1. exchange the full container for a new one
  2. place the syringe on top of the container so it will not roll off
  3. force the syringe into the top of the container as well as it will fit
  4. put the syringe into her pocket and dispose of it in another room
Number 1 is correct.
Rationale: The full container should be replaced with a new one. Sharps should never be placed on top of the container or forced into it, as this increases the risk of a needlestick injury. A dirty sharp should never be placed in a pocket because it is now contaminated from the client, even if the safety device is covering the needle.
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NCLEX.ME Nurse