I think a lot of us – health care providers and patients alike — are trying to make sense of the allegations of the reuse of needles and syringes in Dr. Stephen Stein’s oral surgeon’s office.

None of us can fathom any conceivable reason why anyone would do something like this.

Above and beyond the health implications and the terror for those at risk, this whole situation drives a wedge in the bond of trust between providers and patients … and makes all of us wonder just who we can trust when we sit in the chair or lie on the table.

So we give advice about being proactive, and asking a lot of questions. Sure, that’s a great idea — but sometimes not very practical or easy.

In essence, we don’t have all of the answers on this one. But I do have one little thing that might help. It’s not perfect, but it might give you one little speck of comfort. That is — the disposal box.”

In the hospitals, offices, and clinics where I work, these boxes are prominent fixtures on walls or on counters. Their purpose is simple — disposal of needles, syringes, or other objects that have been used once and therefore can never be used again.

On my part, I always liked them because it meant less chance I, or one of my staff, would get a needle poke in the finger.

But in light of these events, seeing your doctor, dentist, nurse, or whoever — stick a used sharp think into this locked up disposal box — is extra reassurance the health care facility you’re at is practicing at a higher level of safety.

Here’s a picture of one where I work:

(credit: Dr. Dave Hnida)

It’s not a 100% “Dave’s Good Housekeeping Seal of You have No Risk or Worry“, but see this box, and see someone dispose of something in it, you can be rest assured at least someone is thinking of your protection.