Safety & Hygiene Flashcards

Which type of needle disposal container is required for acupuncture needles in a US clinical setting?

Answer: Puncture-resistant sharps container

OSHA mandates puncture-resistant, leak-proof sharps containers for all used acupuncture needles to prevent needlestick injuries.

When treating a patient with a known bloodborne pathogen infection, which precaution level should be applied?

Answer: Standard precautions plus transmission-based precautions

Standard precautions are always applied, and transmission-based precautions are added when a specific bloodborne pathogen is identified.

What is the maximum fill level recommended for a sharps container before it must be sealed and disposed of?

Answer: 75%

Sharps containers should be sealed and replaced when they reach 75% capacity to prevent overfilling and needlestick risk.

Which hand hygiene agent is MOST effective against bloodborne pathogens when hands are visibly soiled?

Answer: Antiseptic soap and water

When hands are visibly soiled, antiseptic soap and water is required because alcohol-based rubs do not effectively remove visible contamination.

In acupuncture practice, needle retention time for most protocols typically ranges from:

Answer: 15–30 minutes

Standard acupuncture needle retention is generally 15–30 minutes, balancing therapeutic effect with patient safety and comfort.

Which antiseptic is the standard recommendation for skin preparation at an acupuncture needle insertion site?

Answer: 70% isopropyl alcohol swab

A 70% isopropyl alcohol swab is the standard for skin antisepsis before needle insertion due to its broad-spectrum efficacy and rapid evaporation.

Which of the following is a critical step BEFORE inserting acupuncture needles into a patient with thin, fragile skin (e.g., elderly)?

Answer: Stretch and stabilize the skin gently at the insertion point

Gently stretching and stabilizing fragile skin reduces the risk of tearing and ensures accurate needle placement.