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Sharps Handling

OSHA and the American Society of Hospital Pharmacists (ASHP) recommend all syringes and needles used in the course of preparation be placed in "sharps" containers for disposal without being crushed, clipped or capped.

All syringes and needles used in preparation must be placed in "sharps" containers for disposal.

Priming of Tubing for Hazardous Drugs

OSHA recommends drug administration sets be attached and primed within the BSC prior to addition of the drug. This eliminates the need to prime the set in a less well-controlled environment. The priming should be done with non-drug containing solution or a back-flow closed system should be used.

Labeling Practices

In addition to standard pharmacy labeling practices, all syringes and IV bags containing hazardous drugs should be labeled with a warning label such as, "Special Handling/Disposal Precautions."

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

2-11. What should be done with all of the syringes and needles used during preparation?