Method and apparatus for disposing of contaminated hypodermic needles

摘要

A portable electrical apparatus for destroying contaminated sharp medical instruments. The sharp portion of an instrument is inserted into the apparatus and electrically grounded. An electrically activated electrode is pivotally advanced to approach or contact the point of the sharp instrument to create an electrical arc that progressively volatilizes the sharp portion. A wiper bar dislodges slag from the electrode surface into a receptacle. The contaminated medical instrument is made safe for disposal by the destruction of the sharp portion and by the killing of germs by the heat of the electrical arc.