Which of the following best describes a sharps waste?

Sharps waste is defined as items that have sharp edges or points and can potentially cause injury or infection. This includes needles, scalpel blades, broken glass, and other sharp objects that, if improperly handled or disposed of, pose a risk of cuts, punctures, or other injuries to healthcare workers, waste handlers, or patients.

Understanding the nature of sharps waste is critical in the healthcare setting, as proper segregation and disposal are essential for maintaining safety and preventing exposure to bloodborne pathogens. While used surgical instruments might be sharp and used in medical procedures, they are typically categorized differently and are not considered sharps waste unless they meet specific criteria. Recyclable materials and regular medical waste, like gauze, do not fit the definition of sharps waste, as they do not possess sharp edges that could lead to injury. Thus, the option that accurately encapsulates the definition of sharps waste is the one that focuses on items with sharp edges that can cause injury.