Patients who self-administer injectable medications, such as those managing diabetes, require a safe and effective method for disposing of used sharps. Where no healthcare worker is involved in administering the medication, the patient’s GP or another healthcare professional should prescribe a sharps bin appropriate to the type and volume of medication being used. Patients should also be advised on safe disposal methods available within their local area.
To ensure the correct and safe use of a sharps bin, patients should receive appropriate training. This may be provided by their dispensing pharmacist or another healthcare professional. Patients should be informed about:
How to correctly deposit used sharps into the bin to avoid injury.
The importance of keeping the bin securely closed when not in use.
Ensuring the bin is not overfilled beyond the designated “fill line.”
Properly sealing and labeling the bin before disposal.
Once the sharps bin reaches the “fill line,” the patient should seal the bin securely to prevent spillage or accidental exposure.
To arrange for collection and disposal, patients should contact Sharpsmart Ltd using the details below:
Phone: 01388 348 007
Email: Doncaster@sharpsmart.co.uk
Postal Address: Unit 1, Enterprise City, Meadowfield Avenue, Spennymoor, DL16 6JF
When contacting Sharpsmart Ltd, patients will need to provide the following details:
Full name
Date of birth
Home address
Telephone number
GP practice details
The name of the medication being injected
The size of the sharps bin (this information is printed on the side of the bin)
Patients are encouraged to arrange collection promptly to ensure safe disposal and maintain good sharps management practices at home. If further assistance is required, they should contact their GP practice or pharmacy for additional guidance.