Which method for re-capping a used needle is approved by the CDC?

The correct answer is that both the use of a recapping device and the single-handed swoop technique are approved methods for recapping a used needle according to CDC guidelines.

Using a recapping device provides a safety mechanism that minimizes the risk of needle-stick injuries, as it allows the healthcare provider to recapitulate the needle without having to use their hands in close proximity to the needle's sharp end. This tool is designed specifically to secure the needle safely and reduce the possibility of accidental pricks.

The single-handed swoop technique also emphasizes safety by allowing the healthcare worker to use one hand to pick up the cap from a flat surface and then maneuver the needle into the cap in a fluid motion. This method minimizes the risk of inadvertent contact with the needle tip because the hand holding the needle remains behind the cap during the process.

Together, these methods represent best practices for needle recapping in a clinical setting, reinforcing the importance of safety in preventing occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens.