A nurse is teaching a newly licensed nurse about reducing the risk of needlestick injuries. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A. This instruction is important for safely disposing of needles after use. Safety devices, such as needle safety shields or retractable needles, should be activated immediately after use to prevent accidental needlestick injuries during disposal. Engaging the safety device helps enclose the needle and reduce the risk of subsequent handling injuries.
B. Large-bore needles, which include needles used for procedures such as blood draws or injections, should be disposed of into puncture-resistant sharps containers, not waterproof wastebaskets. Sharps

containers are specifically designed to safely collect needles and prevent accidental needlestick injuries. Using waterproof wastebaskets does not provide adequate protection and increases the risk of injuries.
C. Bending needles, even those without safety devices, is not recommended. Manipulating needles can increase the risk of needlestick injuries. It is safer to dispose of needles intact into sharps containers designed for safe disposal. Sharps containers are puncture-resistant and prevent accidental exposures to used needles.
D. Sharps containers should not be used until they are completely full. They should be replaced and disposed of according to healthcare facility protocols and regulatory guidelines. Overfilling sharps containers increases the risk of needlestick injuries during disposal and handling. It is essential to follow facility policies for timely replacement and disposal of sharps containers to maintain a safe environment.

A. This response acknowledges the parent's concern but maintains confidentiality regarding the report. It offers to involve the supervisor, which is a reasonable step. However, it may leave the parent feeling uneasy or uncertain.
B. This response directly informs the parent about the legal obligation of the nurse to report suspected child abuse. It provides clarity on why the nurse took action. However, it might be perceived as abrupt or lacking empathy.
C. This response suggests that someone else (possibly a healthcare provider or another authority figure) will explain the situation later. It doesn't directly address the reason for the nurse's action or the legal requirement to report.
D. This response explains the chain of events, from reporting to the supervisor's decision to contact authorities. It provides information but might not directly address the parent's emotional concern or the legal obligation of the nurse.