Bachelor of Health Science (BHS) Degree Practice Exam 2025 – All-in-One Study Guide for Exam Success!

The correct answer highlights the primary purpose of a sharps container in healthcare settings, which is to safely dispose of contaminated sharp objects, specifically safety syringes, needles, and other sharp items that could pose a risk of injury or infection. By providing a designated, puncture-resistant container for such hazardous materials, healthcare facilities minimize the chance of accidental needle sticks and the potential transmission of infectious diseases among healthcare workers, patients, and waste management personnel.

This safety measure is crucial, as sharps containers are specifically designed to prevent the needles from penetrating through the container and to contain any potentially infectious waste. Other options, while related to waste management and infection control, do not accurately reflect the specific function of sharps containers. For instance, the recycling of needles is typically not recommended due to safety and contamination concerns. Similarly, storing clean instruments or collecting patient waste involves different protocols and containers, highlighting the specialized function of sharps containers in managing sharp, potentially dangerous objects.