1. Which of the following is an appropriate guideline for maintaining safety when using sharps? Activating the safety mechanism immediately after use Emptying small sharps containers into larger containers when full Bending or removing needles before disposing of them

The appropriate guideline for maintaining safety when using sharps is: **Activating the safety mechanism immediately after use.** **Explanation of Each Option:** 1. **Activating the safety mechanism immediately after use:** - **Appropriate.** Engaging the safety feature right after using a sharp device (like a needle) helps prevent accidental needlestick injuries, ensuring both the user's and others' safety. 2. **Emptying small sharps containers into larger containers when full:** - **Inappropriate.** Sharps containers are designed for single use and should not be emptied, as doing so can increase the risk of exposure to contaminated sharps. Once a container is full, it should be properly sealed and disposed of according to relevant guidelines and regulations. 3. **Bending or removing needles before disposing of them:** - **Inappropriate.** Altering needles by bending or removing them can lead to accidental injuries. It's safer to handle needles minimally and deposit them directly into designated sharps disposal containers without any modification. **Best Practice:** Always use sharps disposal containers as intended, activate safety features immediately after use, and avoid any actions that might compromise safety. **Answer:** Activating the safety mechanism immediately after use is an appropriate safety guideline.