What should be done with unused medications that have been exposed to blood?

Unused medications that have been exposed to blood must be disposed of as hazardous waste to ensure safety and prevent contamination. Medications that come into contact with blood can potentially carry pathogens and pose a risk of infection if not handled properly. By categorizing these medications as hazardous waste, healthcare facilities follow strict protocols to appropriately manage and dispose of them in a manner that protects both public health and the environment.

Disposing of such medications in regular trash or returning them to the pharmacy does not adhere to safety guidelines and could lead to unintended exposure or environmental contamination. Storing them for future use is also not an appropriate practice, as any exposure to blood may compromise the integrity and safety of the medication. Hence, proper disposal as hazardous waste is crucial to maintaining infection control standards.