Certified Materials and Resource Professional Practice

Intravenous needles are categorized as infectious waste due to their potential to carry pathogens and pose a risk of infection. This type of waste typically includes items that have been in contact with bodily fluids or tissues and can lead to health hazards if improperly disposed of. Infectious waste requires specific handling and disposal methods to prevent exposure to healthcare workers and the community.

On the other hand, cytotoxic waste refers to materials that are toxic to living cells, often associated with chemotherapy drugs, and does not directly relate to the disposal of intravenous needles. Non-hazardous waste pertains to items that do not pose a risk to human health or the environment, while radiation waste is linked to materials that emit radiation, which is not applicable in the context of used intravenous needles. Therefore, the classification of intravenous needles as infectious waste is essential for maintaining safety and compliance in healthcare settings.