Importance of proper ‘sharps’ disposal at home

    “Sharps” is a medical term for devices with sharp points or edges that can puncture or cut skin.
    “It is important to educate the community on the safe disposal of home-use sharps,” said Julie Sharp, human resource director at Chase County Community Hospital/Clinics (CCCH).
    She added that it is simply an unknown reality that incorrect sharp disposal can pose a threat to the public.
    Sharps may be used at home, at work and while traveling to manage  medical conditions of people or their pets, including allergies, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, hepatitis, HIV/AIDS, infertility, migraines, multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis, blood clotting disorders and psoriasis.
Proper disposal
    Put used sharps in a strong, plastic container.
    The container should be made of thick, heavy plastic with a lid that won’t come off.
    A laundry detergent bottle is a good example, according to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) online site, “Safely Using Sharps at Home.”
    When the container is 3/4 full, put the lid on, seal it with duct tape and label DO NOT RECYCLE, advises FDA.
    Put the plastic container in the household trash.
    If a trash collector is reluctant to collect the container, refer them to the appropriate state waste agency.
    “We have had people bring their sharps to the hospital for disposal. Regulations do not allow us to accept in-home-used sharps for disposal,” Sharp said.
Why so important
    Sharps waste is classified as biohazardous waste and must be carefully handled.
    It is possible for this waste to spread blood-borne pathogens if contaminated sharps penetrate the skin.
    Injuries from sharps waste can pose a large public health concern, as used sharps may contain biohazardous material.
    Used needles and other sharps are dangerous to people and pets if not disposed of safely because they can cause injuries and spread infections that cause serious health conditions.

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