BMW management of vial and broken ampule discarded in:

AIIMS Delhi NO- 2019

Applied Microbiology & Infection control

Easy

Appeared in: AIIMS Delhi NO- 2019

Explanation

According to the Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016, glassware such as broken or discarded vials and ampoules are segregated into blue-coded containers.
The specified container is a puncture-proof, leak-proof cardboard box with a blue marking.
This specific container type is mandated to prevent sharps injuries to healthcare and sanitation workers from broken glass.
After collection, this glass waste is typically disinfected and then sent for recycling.

Option A: While the color blue is correct for glassware, the term 'dustbin' is generic. The guidelines specifically recommend a 'cardboard box' to ensure the container is puncture-proof, which is a critical safety feature for broken glass.
Option B: Red-colored bins or bags are designated for contaminated recyclable plastic waste.
Option C: Black-colored bins are used for general, non-infectious, non-biomedical waste.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Biomedical Waste (BMW) Management Guidelines as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Proper segregation of biomedical waste at the point of generation is a critical nursing responsibility to prevent the spread of infections and ensure the safety of healthcare workers, patients, and the community.
Incorrect disposal, such as putting broken glass in a plastic bag (red or yellow bin), can cause sharps injuries to waste handlers, leading to potential exposure to blood-borne pathogens like HIV, HBV, and HCV.
What if? - If the ampoule or vial contained a cytotoxic drug (like a chemotherapy agent), it would NOT go into the blue box. Instead, it must be disposed of in the yellow container and sent for high-temperature incineration, as per the guidelines for managing cytotoxic waste.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the specific type of waste mentioned in the question: 'vial and broken ampule' are made of glass.
Next, recall the color-coding system for Bio-Medical Waste (BMW) management.
Associate the type of waste with the correct color category. Contaminated glassware is designated for the blue category.
Evaluate the options provided. Both 'Blue dustbin' and 'Blue cardboard box' mention the correct color.
Select the most precise and safest option. The official guidelines specify a puncture-proof 'cardboard box' for glassware to prevent injuries, making this the best answer.
Eliminate the other options by recalling their designated waste types: Red is for contaminated plastics, and Black is for general, non-infectious waste.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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