<![CDATA[Purpose – This study aims to optimize the function of sharps containers in preventing needlestick injuries (NSIs) among nursing students during laboratory practice sessions. Design/methods/approach – This study employed a quasi-experimental design using a one-group pretest–posttest approach. The intervention consisted of optimizing sharps container utilization through: (1) standardization of container availability at each practicum table, (2) implementing a maximum fill limit of 75%, (3) ergonomic placement of containers, and (4) training on proper usage. The sample comprised 86 second-semester nursing students selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through observations of sharps disposal behavior, knowledge questionnaires, and documentation of NSI incidents. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to analyze differences before and after the intervention. Findings – Students’ compliance in using sharps containers increased significantly from 68.5% to 92.3% (p < 0.001). The practice of needle recapping decreased from 45.2% to 12.7%. The incidence of NSIs during laboratory sessions decreased from 8 cases (9.3%) in the pre-intervention period to 1 case (1.2%) in the post-intervention period. Students’ knowledge regarding sharps waste management improved from a mean score of 68.4 to 89.7 (p < 0.001). Research implications/limitations – This study was limited to a single institution with a relatively short observation period (2 months per phase). Further research using a controlled design and longer observation periods is required to assess the generalizability and sustainability of the findings. Originality/value – This study provides practical contributions to the development of standard operating procedures for sharps waste management in nursing education laboratories and serves as a foundation for occupational safety policies for students as future nurses.]]>
Copyrights © 2026
