What is the Sharps Shuttle used for?
The NAR Sharps Shuttle (30-0014) is a compact, single-use sharps container for point-of-use disposal of used needles, catheters, and small syringes during IV and IO access procedures. The clear body allows fill-level monitoring, the vertical point-first entry reduces accidental needle-stick risk during disposal, and the quick-tab locking cap secures contents until proper disposal.
How many needles does the Sharps Shuttle hold?
The Sharps Shuttle holds up to 6 needles. Its tapered cylindrical body (1.25 in diameter × 6.5 in length) is sized to accommodate the typical sharps generated during a complete IV saline lock placement or IO access procedure without requiring the medic to carry a full-size sharps container.
Does the Sharps Shuttle fit in tactical medical kits?
Yes. The Sharps Shuttle's tapered cylindrical form factor (1.25 in × 6.5 in) is specifically designed to fit snugly into the NAR Medic Leg-Rig™ and Trauma Pack, keeping it accessible at the point of procedure. Its slim profile also fits standard IFAK side pouches and aid bag pockets without displacing other critical supplies.
Is the Sharps Shuttle reusable?
No. The Sharps Shuttle is single-use and disposable. After use, close the quick-tab locking cap to secure the contents and dispose of as biohazardous sharps waste in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations for sharps disposal. Do not attempt to re-open or reuse the container after locking.
Why is a dedicated sharps container important in tactical medicine?
Needle-stick injuries in the field carry significant bloodborne pathogen exposure risk and require post-exposure protocols that can impact operational readiness. In austere environments with poor lighting, patient movement, and stress, recapping needles by hand dramatically increases stick risk. The Sharps Shuttle provides a structured one-handed disposal pathway that eliminates the need for needle recapping and ensures used sharps are immediately contained, protecting both the medic and the patient.