After hand washing, what should the used paper towel be disposed of in?

The used paper towel should be disposed of in a covered receptacle located in the treatment room to maintain a hygienic environment. Covering the receptacle minimizes exposure to air and reduces the risk of contamination, ensuring that germs and residues from the used paper towel don't spread to other surfaces or areas of the treatment room. This practice aligns with proper infection control protocols that are critical in elective procedures like electrolysis, where cleanliness is essential to prevent cross-contamination.

Disposing of the towel in an open trash can could expose it to airborne pathogens and is less sanitary. Likewise, disposing of it in a sink or a recyclables bin would not be appropriate, as sinks are for water and bodily fluids, and recyclables are designated for materials that can be processed again. Thus, a covered receptacle located in the treatment room is the most suitable and safest choice.