Which method is least preferable for recapping a needle?

Which method is least preferable for recapping a needle?

• A. Scoop technique
• B. Two-handed method
• C. One-handed method with the plunger
• D. Do not recap the needle

Answer: (B)

The safety of needle handling hinges on keeping your hands away from the needle tip during disposal. Using both hands to recap—the two-handed method—puts your fingers closer to the needle as you try to fit the cap over it, increasing the chance of a needle-stick if you slip or the needle moves unexpectedly. A safer approach is the one-handed scoop technique, which allows you to cap the needle with a single hand while keeping the other hand away from the needle, reducing exposure. Some settings also adopt the policy of not recapping the needle at all, which eliminates the risk of a recapping injury entirely. If recapping must occur, the one-handed method is the recommended option over the two-handed method.

The safety of needle handling hinges on keeping your hands away from the needle tip during disposal. Using both hands to recap—the two-handed method—puts your fingers closer to the needle as you try to fit the cap over it, increasing the chance of a needle-stick if you slip or the needle moves unexpectedly. A safer approach is the one-handed scoop technique, which allows you to cap the needle with a single hand while keeping the other hand away from the needle, reducing exposure. Some settings also adopt the policy of not recapping the needle at all, which eliminates the risk of a recapping injury entirely. If recapping must occur, the one-handed method is the recommended option over the two-handed method.