Can ink used on one client be reused for another client?

• A. Yes, it can be reused if sterile
• B. No, ink used on one client cannot be reused
• C. Only if the bottle is unopened
• D. Only if the ink is from the same brand

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is preventing cross-contamination. Ink that has been used on one client can contain bloodborne pathogens and bacteria. If that same ink is used for another client, those organisms could be transmitted, which is why it must not be reused. Even if the ink comes from the same brand or the bottle is unopened, once it has touched a client’s skin or fluids, its sterility is compromised and it should not be used again on someone else. The safe practice is to dispense ink into single-use cups for each client and discard any leftovers, never pouring used ink back into the bottle.