What should be done after administering an injection?

After administering an injection, the appropriate step is to dispose of the syringe and needle in a bio-hazard sharps container. This practice is essential for ensuring safety and preventing any potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens or other infectious materials. Sharps containers are specifically designed to hold used needles and other sharp instruments safely, thereby minimizing the risk of injury to healthcare workers, patients, and the general public.

Using a bio-hazard sharps container aligns with infection control protocols, as it helps to manage waste properly and adhere to regulations concerning medical waste disposal. This step also contributes to maintaining a sterile environment and reduces the chances of accidental needle sticks, which could lead to serious health risks.

Other choices do not promote safe practices following an injection. For example, simply capping the syringe does not provide adequate safety or contamination prevention measures, and giving the syringe to the patient poses significant health risks. Placing the syringe in regular trash is also inappropriate, as it could lead to unintended exposure to the needle. Thus, the correct action is to dispose of the syringe and needle in a designated bio-hazard sharps container.