528 Health Care Skills
Storing your tools
If you store your tools properly you can do Steps 1, 2, and 3 at one time, and the
tools will be ready to use whenever you need them. To store tools:
• After boiling, pour off the water and let the tools dry by themselves. Do not
dry them with a cloth. Put a lid or a thin, clean cloth over the pot to prevent
flies and dust from getting in. Be sure to let the tools dry completely. Metal
objects will rust if they are not dry.
• Do not let the tools touch your hands or anything else.
• Store the tools in a covered pot that has been
disinfected. You can use the pot that was used
for boiling with a lid, or the steamer that was
used for steaming, or a glass jar and
lid that have been boiled. If possible,
put everything in a clean plastic bag
to protect from dust.
Make sure the pot and lid
where you store the tools
have also been disinfected.
Disinfecting needles and syringes, gloves, and bandages
Needles and syringes. If a needle and syringe can be
used more than once (reusable), squirt bleach or
soapy water through the syringe 3 times right after
using it. Then take everything apart and follow
Step 2 and then Step 3 on page 527. Carefully store
the syringe until the next use. Be sure not to touch
the needle or the plunger.
If you are not able to store things in a clean and
dry place, boil or steam them again before use.
If a needle and syringe can be used one time only (disposable), carefully put them in a
covered container that cannot be pierced by the needle, and bury the container deeply.
If you cannot dispose of the needle safely, squirt bleach solution through it 3 times.
Used needles
are dangerous!
Where Women Have No Doctor 2012