NHA Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

True or False: An unused needle can be safely recapped.

1. True

2. False

3. N/A

4. Dependent on situation

The correct answer is: False

Recapping an unused needle is generally considered unsafe and is discouraged in clinical practice due to the risk of needlestick injuries. When a needle is recapped, there is still a potential for accidental puncture, particularly if it is done with one hand or without proper technique. Instead, needles should be disposed of immediately in an appropriate sharps container to minimize hazard. The recommendation aligns with safety guidelines established by organizations such as OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), emphasizing the importance of safe needle handling practices. The options presented here might imply that there are scenarios where recapping could be acceptable; however, the standard recommendation remains that recapping is not a safe practice, regardless of the context.