What should never be done with a needle after use?

Recapping a used needle is a practice that should be avoided due to the increased risk of needle-stick injuries. Needles should never be recapped because this process can lead to inadvertent puncture wounds, which can expose the person handling the needle to bloodborne pathogens. It is essential to handle needles with caution and ensure that they are discarded properly to maintain safety in the workplace.

In contrast to recapping, the proper disposal of needles involves placing them in designated sharps containers that are puncture-resistant and specifically designed for holding used needles and other sharp objects. This method minimizes the risk of injury and ensures that hazardous waste is handled appropriately. Such protocols are critical components of best practices in phlebotomy and healthcare settings.