What should a CNA do when handling biohazard waste?

When handling biohazard waste, the correct action is to dispose of it in designated biohazard containers. This is crucial because biohazard waste includes materials that may be contaminated with infectious agents, such as blood, body fluids, or other hazardous medical materials.

Using designated biohazard containers helps ensure that such waste is properly managed to prevent the spread of infection and protect both healthcare workers and the environment. These containers are typically puncture-proof, leak-proof, and labeled with the recognizable biohazard symbol, which alerts others of the potential risks associated with the materials inside.

Disposing of biohazard waste in regular trash could lead to contamination and exposure to others, while burning it may pose environmental risks and is not an established practice for safe waste management. Recycling biohazard waste is also not appropriate, as the materials could pose health risks and are not suitable for reuse. Thus, proper disposal methods are essential in maintaining safety and compliance in healthcare settings.