“Sharps” are any object or material that could, within the walls of the psych ward, be weaponized against oneself or others. Razors, nail files, earrings, pins, broaches, belt buckles, and cutlery—forks and spoons included—are all considered sharps. Even long nails are seen as sharps and are promptly filed down by a nurse or orderly.
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Sharps Term Timeline in Girl, Interrupted
The timeline below shows where the term Sharps appears in Girl, Interrupted. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.
Chapter 5: Freedom
...later, her long nails have been cut down to the quick—the nurses declared them harmful “sharps” which Lisa could use to harm herself or others—and the cheap beaded belt she always...
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Chapter 15: Sharps
...cutlery were just some of the objects which, on the ward, were referred to as “sharps” and were taken away from any patient in possession of them. The patients ate with...
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