POTSDAM, NY – Area residents are encouraged to use any of St. Lawrence Health’s (SLH) three hospitals to drop off used sharps (needles), and to pick up a new container for them. There are, however, protocols that should be taken to protect anyone who handles a container with needles in it.
SLH Director of Environmental Services Nick Pomainville pointed out it is extremely important that pre-approved sharps containers being turned in are sealed securely, and have the name and contact information on them of the person who is disposing of the container.
“Providing this information on the container will help protect the hospital staff who are handling the containers. For example, in a worst case scenario, if someone is accidently stuck by one of the needles, the label on the container will help to quickly identify who we can contact to discuss any potential exposure to pathogens that may have occurred. This will ensure our employee(s) receive the necessary treatment, if needed,” Mr. Pomainville said.
Approved sharps containers may be picked up and dropped off at the Information Desk at Canton-Potsdam Hospital and Massena Hospital, and at the Registration Desk at Gouverneur Hospital. There is no charge to the public for the containers or their disposal.
“Once a container is dropped off, the Registration/Information personnel call the Environmental Services department for a member to come and get it. My staff will arrive with a collection container into which the patient’s container will be dropped into for disposal,” Mr. Pomainville explained. “When a member of the public drops off a full container, that is a great time to ask for a replacement sharps container to take home.”
If however, someone needs a new container and they are not able to get to the hospital to pick one up, there are alternate options.
“People can use heavy-duty plastic household containers, such as empty plastic laundry detergent or windshield wiper fluid bottles that have been emptied and thoroughly rinsed. Things like milk jugs, soda bottles, paper bags, or cardboard containers will not be accepted at our hospitals,” Mr. Pomainville said.
Dropping off or picking up a sharps container at the hospital should never make an individual feel uncomfortable. The Community Sharps Program that St. Lawrence Health partakes in is a critical part of fostering healthier communities.
“Utilizing the Community Sharps Program will protect community members from potential injury or disease transmission of blood borne diseases due to needle sticks if the items are placed in everyday household trash,” Mr. Pomainville noted.
Questions regarding the disposal of sharps may be directed to SLH’s Environmental Services Department at 315-261-5340.
