December is International Sharps Injury Prevention Month, so I wanted to briefly talk about sharps safety. Sharps are devices with sharp points or edges—such as needles—that can puncture or cut skin and may be used in the home to manage certain medical conditions. While CareBuilders does not provide medical care, some clients self-administer injections and therefore have sharps in their homes. These tips apply to anyone who has sharps at home, as well as anyone entering a home where sharps are present.
Use Safe Containers
If you have needles in your home, you should have a dedicated container for sharps disposal. While some people use household items like thick plastic bottles, it’s important that the container is clearly labeled so others know sharps are inside. Having one designated container—and only one—helps reduce the risk of accidental injury.
Once Something Goes In, It Stays In
Everyone in the household should understand that nothing ever comes out of a sharps container. Only sharps should go in, and it’s unsafe to reach inside for any reason. This simple rule can prevent serious injuries.
Get Seen Immediately After a Needlestick
If a needlestick injury occurs, seek medical attention right away. A healthcare professional needs to assess the situation and determine next steps. This is a serious safety issue and should be treated urgently.
For general, non-clinical guidance on preventing sharps injuries at home, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s sharps safety resources provide clear information on handling and disposal.
If you’re thinking about broader home safety considerations, you may also find our post on assistive devices at home helpful, as it covers tools and practices that support safer daily routines.
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not medical advice. CareBuilders at Home provides non-medical home care services.
Thank you for reading, and see you tomorrow!
Written by Brigid Stakelum
