A nurse is assisting with teaching a newly licensed nurse about preventing puncture injuries. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

B. Sharps containers should be replaced when they are 3/4 full to prevent overfilling, which could increase the risk of needlesticks when trying to dispose of sharps. Ensuring sharps containers are not overfilled helps maintain a safe environment by reducing the risk of accidental puncture injuries during disposal.

A. Used razors should be disposed of in puncture-resistant sharps containers, not in regular wastebaskets. Sharps containers are specifically designed to safely contain sharp objects to prevent accidental injuries.

C. Using two hands to recap a needle is unsafe and increases the risk of accidental needlestick injuries. It's important to educate healthcare workers to avoid recapping needles whenever possible.

D. Breaking needles before disposal is unsafe and increases the risk of injury. Needles should be disposed of intact in a puncture-resistant sharps container.

A. Distal veins, such as those in the hand or forearm of the nondominant arm, are often preferred for initial IV placement. These veins are typically smaller but can be easier to access and cause less discomfort for the patient compared to more proximal veins.

B. Proximal veins, such as those in the upper arm (brachial or basilic veins), may be considered if distal veins are not accessible or suitable. However, proximal veins are larger and can be more difficult to cannulate, potentially causing more discomfort and increasing the risk of complications.

C. The antecubital veins, located in the bend of the elbow, are commonly used for venipuncture due to their accessibility and size. The antecubital vein of the nondominant arm is often preferred to minimize interference with the patient's daily activities and reduce the risk of complications associated with frequent use of the dominant arm.

D. While the antecubital vein of the dominant arm may also be accessible, it is generally recommended to preserve this area for procedures that require a higher level of dexterity and strength. Frequent venipuncture in the dominant arm can lead to discomfort and potential complications, such as phlebitis or thrombosis.