Recapping Needles Using One Handed Technique (Contaminated Needles)

Recapping Needles Using One Handed Technique (Contaminated Needles)

Equipment
■ Mechanical recapping device, if available.
■ Needle cover.
■ Safety syringe, if available.
■ Other supplies depending on the method used.

Key Points
■ Be Safe!
■ Recap a contaminated needle only if you cannot avoid it.
■ Do not place either of your hands near the needle cap when recapping the needle or engaging the safety mechanism.
■ If you are using a safety needle, engage the safety mechanism to cover the needle.
■ Place the needle cap in a mechanical recapping device if one is available.
■ If recapping devices are not available and you must recap the needle for your own and/or the patient’s safety, use the one-handed scoop technique.

Documentation
■ No documentation needed for recapping needles.

Place needle cover on flat surface

Scoop the cap onto the needle