This reflective essay delves into a nursing student's experience during a clinical placement, focusing on an incident involving insulin injection administration and the safe disposal of sharps. Using Driscoll's model of reflection, the essay analyzes the student's perceptions and attitudes towards the incident, particularly regarding the conflicting instructions from a supervising registered nurse (RN) to recap the needle, despite knowing the associated risks. The student's anxiety, ethical considerations, and the RN's failure to adhere to safety guidelines and competency standards are discussed. The essay also addresses the student's own negligence in not bringing a disposable tray and the subsequent needlestick injury. It concludes with the student's commitment to safe practices, including avoiding recapping needles, proper disposal methods, and reporting future incidents, emphasizing the importance of competency standards and safety-engineered devices in healthcare.