What distinguishes a passive safety needle from an active safety needle?

The distinguishing feature of a passive safety needle is that it is designed to protect healthcare workers from needlestick injuries without the need for any manual activation. This design means that once the injection is done, the safety mechanism automatically engages, covering the needle. Therefore, saying that passive needles cannot be reused accurately highlights that their safety feature is built to prevent reuse and potential exposure. In contrast, active safety needles require the user to manually activate the safety mechanism after the injection, which can sometimes lead to lapses in safety if not performed correctly. The correct answer captures the essence of the passive safety needle’s design intent, emphasizing its automatic, user-free mechanism that enhances safety and reduces the likelihood of reuse or improper handling.