What type of waste goes into a sharps container?

• A. Cotton balls and gauze.
• B. Plastic wrap.
• C. Used paper towels.
• D. Needles, razor blades, lancets.

Answer: (D)

Waste that goes into a sharps container is any item that can pierce or cut the skin and may be contaminated with blood or bodily fluids. This includes needles, razor blades, and lancets. These sharp items must be disposed of in a puncture-resistant, closable container to prevent needle-stick injuries and contain any infectious material safely.

Items like cotton balls and gauze, used paper towels, or plastic wrap don’t pose a puncture risk, so they go into regular waste or as dictated by your facility’s policy for contaminated waste.