After use, syringes and needles should be disposed of by discarding and using a new sterile syringe and needle for each injection.

• A. Reuse the syringe after cleaning
• B. Reuse for the same patient
• C. Discard the used syringe and needle and use a new sterile syringe and needle
• D. Recycle the used syringe as medical waste

Answer: (C)

Single-use sterile items are designed for one-time use to prevent infection and cross-contamination. Once a syringe and needle have been used, they are contaminated with blood and body fluids, and cleaning or attempting to reuse them cannot guarantee sterility. Even if it seems to work for one patient, residual microbes can remain and be transmitted in future injections. Using a new sterile syringe and needle for every injection protects the patient from infections and ensures accurate dosing. After use, dispose of the syringe and needle in a puncture‑resistant sharps container; do not recycle or reuse, as this creates a high risk of transmitting diseases and causing needle-stick injuries.