As we grow older, we find ourselves with more stuff to deal with, some of which is medical waste. Medications, medical equipment, accessories, and other implements for taking care of our health and well-being may linger around our homes. Because of their importance, we may hesitate before discarding them with the regular trash. That’s smart thinking because much medical waste is anything but “regular.” It requires safe disposal to prevent harm to the environment and waste handlers. Here are four types of household medical waste and how to trash them properly.
Sharps (Needles, Lancets, Syringes)
Sharps are potentially hazardous due to their ability to puncture waste bags and the skin and carry infections. Never throw sharps into regular trash or recycling bins. Instead, get a designated sharps container. These are available online, at your local pharmacy, or through the health department. Toss all used syringes, needles, lancets, and sharp medical instruments into the container. When it is full, cap it. Some localities accept sharps containers with landfill trash since they’re brightly colored and easy to incinerate. However, see if your pharmacy or local hospital accepts them. Many hospitals dispose of medical waste safely, so ask if they’ll accept your container.
Medications
Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements eventually expire or are left unused once an illness has passed. Don’t throw away or flush old drugs. They can harm the environment or may be found and consumed by animals, children, or drug-seeking individuals. Many pharmacies and police stations offer a place to get rid of old drugs; call yours to see if they do. Otherwise, mix old meds with unappetizing substances, such as coffee grounds or used cat litter, in a sealable plastic bag and throw it away.
Bandages and Gauze
A wound may be on the mend, but the bandages and gauze used to heal it may be riddled with bacteria, viruses, and similar pathogens. Wrap soiled bandages in a plastic bag and seal it tightly. Throw it away with the regular trash, but ensure it can’t leak. If you have access to an incinerator (not a fireplace or a fire pit) where you can safely burn them, use that instead.
Used Medical Devices
Did you know that you can donate glucose monitors, thermometers, and blood pressure cuffs that are clean and in good shape? When these tools reach the end of their lifespan, however, dispose of them safely. Some used medical devices may contain dangerous chemicals or become electronic waste hazards. Check the manual for disposal instructions or seek an E-waste disposal facility.
Those are just four types of household medical waste and how to trash them. Safely managing medical waste is a small but essential part of ensuring the health and safety of everyone in the household and community. Start incorporating these practices now to make a lasting difference!