Guthrie introduces community-wide needle disposal program

In its continuing effort to promote the safety of the community, Guthrie now offers a new method of needle and syringe disposal for the community. A Stericycle safe disposal kiosk has been installed in the Guthrie Clinic Pharmacy in Sayre. 

Rebecca Cassellbury, manager of Environmental Services, said, “Guthrie recognizes the need to offer our patients and community a safe way in which to dispose of needles. Many individuals use needles on a regular basis for their health maintenance, such as for insulin injections. By offering a simple way in which to dispose of these needles, we can help reduce the risk of exposure to sharps injuries within our community.” 

Kevin VanHorn, Robert Packer safety officer, added, “This program will prevent used needles from entering the household waste stream and being a danger to anyone who comes into contact with them. The new disposal option also supports Guthrie’s efforts to introduce new measures to help tackle the misuse and abuse of prescription drugs and create safer communities.” 

The Stericycle safe disposal kiosk can be accessed during Pharmacy hours. Before disposal in the unit, needles must be safely packaged within a container. Appropriate containers for disposal include hard plastic sharp shelters purchased from a pharmacy, coffee cans with tight fitting covers size 10.5 oz. – 30.6 oz. and sharps pointing down, hard plastic 1-gallon detergent or bleach bottle with a cap and a two-liter soda container with a cap.