Avoid disinfecting syringes in dirty areas. Doing so could result in your bacteria or viruses being transferred from the work area to disinfected syringes. [3] X Research source
Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. A quick rinse will not effectively remove germs from your hands. [5] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
If you don’t have bleach, fill the container with high percentage isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher recommended) or hydrogen peroxide. [7] X Research source
Never reuse fluid that has been inside a syringe. Fluid used to rinse or disinfect syringes should be disposed down a drain. [8] X Research source Be careful when handling syringes, especially those that have been used before. Pricking yourself with a dirty needle may cause illness or infection.
When the barrel is full of water, gently shake the syringe and tap the barrel against the palm of your hand. This will help loosen up hardened blood. [9] X Research source
Draw water into the barrel until it is half full. Remove the needle from the water. Extend the plunger as far back as possible without detaching it. Shake the syringe gently. Press the plunger to eject the water. Do not reuse water. Repeat this at least three times. [14] X Research source
If a sharpening stone is unavailable, you can use the striking surface of a matchbox as the sharpening surface. The magnifying glasses used by jewelers and cosmetologists can sometimes be found at flea markets. [16] X Research source
Take care not to pull the plunger of the syringe while sharpening. Doing so might draw dangerous fragments created by sharpening into the barrel. Most needles sharpen in 2 to 3 passes when pulled along the entire length of a sharpening stone or the striking strip of a matchbox. Pressing too hard on the needle when sharpening could damage the needle. Syringes with damaged needles should be disposed of in an appropriate container. [17] X Research source
Use a magnifying glass, if you have one, to inspect the needle point. If you notice roughness, pass the needle a few more times along the sharpening surface. [18] X Research source
Sharpening a syringe creates small, sometimes invisible needle fragments. If injected, these can be deadly. Be thorough when cleaning sharpened needles. Wet sharpened needles with sterilized water before using them. This will lubricate the needle, allowing for better penetration.
