Which of the following types of waste is considered regulated medical waste in a dental setting?

In a dental setting, contaminated sharps are classified as regulated medical waste due to their potential to cause injury and transmit infections. Contaminated sharps include items like needles, scalpel blades, and any other objects that may break the skin and potentially carry pathogens. Because these materials can pose a significant risk of infection to dental personnel, patients, and waste handlers, they are subject to stringent disposal regulations.

Regulated medical waste requires special handling and disposal procedures to minimize health risks, which is why contaminated sharps are typically placed in puncture-resistant containers for safe disposal. This classification helps ensure that waste management practices align with contamination prevention protocols and regulatory requirements designed to protect public health.

In contrast, non-sharp materials, disposable gloves, and food waste do not fall under the same regulations because they do not present the same level of risk for injury or infection transmission when disposed of properly.