Okuzeka
Nursing vocabulary · Infection Control

Sharps bin

Meaning in nursing, with examples

/ˈʃɑːrps bɪn/nounCore term

In nursing, sharps bin means: A strong plastic container with a lid, often yellow, into which used needles, blades and other sharp items are put for safe disposal.

In Turkish: kesici-delici atık kutusu, iğne atık kutusu

How it is used

'Sharps bin' is British; Americans say 'sharps container'. 'Sharps' on its own means any sharp items. Typical rules are that whoever used the sharp puts it in the bin straight away, needles are not recapped and the bin is closed when it reaches the fill line.

Example sentences

  1. Put the needle straight in the sharps bin; don't leave it on the tray.

  2. This sharps bin is three-quarters full, so it needs closing and replacing.

Common collocations

  • dispose of in the sharps bin
  • full sharps bin
  • close the sharps bin
  • sharps disposal
  • needlestick injuryAn accidental prick or cut of the skin with a used needle or another sharp object, which may expose the person to infections carried in the blood.
  • clinical wasteWaste from healthcare that may be infectious or harmful, such as used dressings, blood-stained items, sharps and some medicines.
  • PPEShort for personal protective equipment: gloves, aprons, gowns, masks, eye protection and similar items worn to protect staff and patients from infection.

More terms: Infection Control

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.