Is it safe practice to recap needles after injection?

Recapping needles after an injection is considered unsafe practice due to the high risk of needlestick injuries. Such injuries can potentially expose healthcare workers to bloodborne pathogens and infectious diseases, such as HIV and hepatitis. Even with careful handling, the act of recapping can result in accidental punctures.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and various safety guidelines strongly advise against recapping needles. Instead, it is recommended to dispose of needles immediately in a designated sharps container without attempting to recap them. This eliminates the risk entirely and promotes a safer environment for healthcare professionals.

While safety devices exist that allow for safer handling of needles, the overall approach remains that recapping, by any means, is inherently risky.