What are sharps in biomedical waste?

• A. Devices that can puncture or cut skin, such as needles, syringes with needles, scalpels, lancets, and broken glass
• B. Used gloves
• C. Soiled linens
• D. Paper towels

Answer: (A)

Sharps are items that can puncture or cut the skin, creating a risk of injury and exposure to infections. In biomedical waste, examples include needles, syringes with needles, scalpels, lancets, and broken glass. Because these objects can cause serious needle-stick injuries, they require special handling. After use, they must be placed in dedicated sharps containers that are rigid, leak-proof, puncture-resistant, and closable to prevent spills and injuries. These containers are used immediately after use and should not be recapped, bent, or broken. They are sealed and replaced according to facility policy once full. Do not dispose of sharps in regular trash or with non-sharp waste.