Bending, recapping, and removing contaminated needles are considered _____.

Bending, recapping, and removing contaminated needles are considered prohibited practices due to the inherent risks involved with these actions. The primary concern is that these practices increase the likelihood of needlestick injuries, which can lead to exposure to bloodborne pathogens such as HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.

Organizations and safety guidelines emphasize the importance of using safe needle devices and techniques to minimize the potential for such injuries. For instance, recapping needles often puts healthcare workers at risk, as it requires handling a sharp object that may still have infectious materials.

Prohibited practices are specifically defined to protect workers and minimize the risk of exposure to dangerous pathogens, aligning with the overarching goal of ensuring safety in healthcare settings. By following strict guidelines that do not allow these practices, organizations can significantly reduce the incidence of needlestick injuries and ensure a safer work environment.