Which action is critical to avoid needlestick injuries when switching needles?

When switching needles, protecting the sterility of the new needle is crucial to prevent needlestick injuries. This action is essential because maintaining sterility helps ensure that the needle remains free from contaminants that could lead to infections or complications when the needle is later used. Additionally, safeguarding the new needle from contact with unsanitary surfaces or other non-sterile objects reduces the risk of accidental self-infliction of a needlestick, which can occur if the needle touches potentially hazardous areas before use.

To provide further clarity, some alternatives may seem reasonable but don't contribute effectively to preventing needlestick injuries. For example, using gloves can help prevent exposure to contaminants during the process, but it does not directly address the sterility of the new needle or the overall risk of accidental injury. Similarly, immediately discarding used needles is a good practice in general to minimize exposure to hazardous waste, but it does not specifically relate to the action of switching needles. Lastly, using the same needle for multiple medications is not a safe practice and could lead to cross-contamination or infection, further increasing risks associated with needlestick injuries.