What should be done with used tissues by a patient coughing due to a suspected respiratory infection?

When a patient is coughing due to a suspected respiratory infection, it's essential to manage used tissues properly to prevent the spread of infection. Placing used tissues in a designated waste container is the appropriate action. This step ensures that any infectious materials are contained and disposed of in a manner that minimizes the risk of transmission to others.

Designated waste containers are typically lined with biohazard bags and are intended specifically for disposing of infectious waste. By using these containers, healthcare facilities can follow proper infection control protocols and safely manage waste.

In contrast, disposing of tissues in general waste could lead to potential contamination and exposure, while returning them to a healthcare provider does not address the necessary containment of the infectious materials. Flushing them down the toilet is generally not recommended, as it can lead to plumbing issues and does not comply with infection control procedures.