What is the best approach for addressing frequent sharps disposal issues when sharps containers are available but not consistently used?

• A. Visit with all staff, inquire about the issue, and work with the EVS director to resolve obstacles based on staff feedback.
• B. Discipline staff immediately.
• C. Remove sharps containers from patient rooms.
• D. Ignore the problem.

Answer: (A)

Addressing frequent sharps disposal issues requires a collaborative, systems-based approach that identifies and removes barriers to proper disposal. By engaging all staff, you surface real-world obstacles—such as awkward container placement, accessibility during busy times, miscommunication about disposal procedures, or workload and workflow gaps. Then partnering with the Environmental Services director allows you to align cleaning and supply processes with disposal needs, adjust container placement or availability, and implement practical fixes supported by frontline staff feedback. This approach builds safety culture, improves compliance, and protects both staff and patients.

Disciplining staff, removing containers, or ignoring the problem fail to address why the issue is happening and can create new risks or worsen safety culture.