Which of the following is NOT considered a sharps item?

In the context of sharps items, a cotton swab is not considered a sharps item because it does not have the potential to cause puncture wounds or cuts that can lead to injury or transmission of bloodborne pathogens. Sharps are typically items that have a pointed or cutting edge and can easily breach the skin, such as needles and blades.

A sterilized needle, a cutting blade, and a piercing needle all have sharp, pointed tips that can pose significant risks if not handled properly, making them classified as sharps. On the other hand, a cotton swab is soft, flexible, and designed for safe handling, primarily used for applying substances or cleaning rather than penetrating the skin. Thus, it does not fit the criteria of a sharp item in a tattooing or body piercing environment.