To reduce the risk of needlestick injuries when administering an IM injection, what should the nurse do?

To effectively reduce the risk of needlestick injuries when administering an intramuscular (IM) injection, the immediate disposal of the used needle in a puncture-proof sharps container is essential. This practice ensures that the sharp object is safely contained and reduces the chance of accidental injuries to healthcare workers or others handling waste.

Using a puncture-proof sharps container is critical because it is specifically designed to safely hold used needles and other sharp objects, preventing them from causing injury or contaminating the environment. Adhering to this protocol is a fundamental component of infection control and safety standards in healthcare settings. It promotes a safer work environment and protects both the healthcare provider and patients from potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

The other options, such as capping the used needle or placing it in a regular waste bin, do not provide adequate safety and can lead to increased risk of injury. Passing the needle to another nurse can also expose multiple people to risk. Therefore, the immediate disposal into a designated sharps container is the best practice.