What must be done with items contaminated by body fluids during patient care?

Items contaminated by body fluids during patient care must be treated as biohazardous material because they pose a risk of transmitting infections and diseases. This classification requires that such items are handled with strict protocols to ensure safety for both healthcare providers and patients.

The biohazardous designation means that these materials should be disposed of in a manner that prevents exposure to infectious agents. This typically involves using specific containers designated for biohazardous waste, which are often puncture-resistant and leak-proof, ensuring that any potential pathogens are contained. Infection control guidelines and regulations established by organizations like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandate these practices to minimize the risk of contamination and infection.

In contrast to treating these items as biohazardous, other options suggest alternatives that could compromise safety protocols, such as improper storage or reuse, which are not compliant with established health standards. Disposing of them immediately without proper classification would also fail to protect personnel and the environment from exposure to hazardous materials. Therefore, recognizing and treating contaminated items as biohazardous is essential in maintaining health and safety in clinical settings.