After removal of NG tube it can be discarded in which colour bag?

Appeared in: NORCET 3 - 2022 (Shift-2)

Explanation

An NG tube is made of plastic and is considered contaminated after use, classifying it as recyclable contaminated waste.
As per the Biomedical Waste Management (BMWM) Rules, 2016, all contaminated recyclable waste, including plastic items like tubing, catheters, and IV sets, must be segregated into red-colored bags.
Waste collected in red bags undergoes disinfection processes like autoclaving or microwaving before being sent for recycling.

Option B: The yellow bag is designated for anatomical waste (tissues, organs), heavily soiled items (dressings), expired medicines, and chemical waste, all of which are typically destined for incineration.
Option C: The black bag is used for general, non-biomedical waste, such as office paper, food wrappers, and other non-contaminated trash. An NG tube is medical waste and poses an infection risk.
Option D: The blue bag or puncture-proof container is specifically for glassware (like broken vials and ampoules) and metallic body implants.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Biomedical Waste Management (BMWM) color coding as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Proper segregation of biomedical waste at the point of generation is a fundamental nursing responsibility to prevent nosocomial infections and protect healthcare workers, patients, and the community.
Incorrect disposal can lead to needlestick injuries, spread of infectious diseases (like HIV and Hepatitis), and environmental pollution, carrying legal and financial penalties for the healthcare facility.
What if? - If the NG tube had been used to administer cytotoxic drugs for chemotherapy, it would no longer go into the red bag. Instead, it must be disposed of in the yellow bag along with other cytotoxic-contaminated items for high-temperature incineration.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the item to be discarded: a Nasogastric (NG) tube.
Next, classify the material and nature of the item: It is a plastic tube that is contaminated with bodily fluids after use.
Recall the standard color-coding system for Biomedical Waste Management (BMWM) as per the 2016 rules.
Match the item's classification (contaminated recyclable plastic) to the correct color code. Red is designated for such items.
Systematically eliminate the other options by recalling their specific uses: Yellow for anatomical/soiled waste, Black for general waste, and Blue for glassware.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Q43yI3Weo_SE91p0B99NQR

E6 Comprehensive Textbook of Community Health Nursing for BSc Nursing Students Part 2 — Subpart B (pp 276-535 of 550) p. 191-193

E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 2 — Subpart B (pp 233-449 of 464) p. 109-111

Practise the full NORCET 3 - 2022 (Shift-2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.