Abstract: In accordance with the teachings described herein, systems and methods are provided for counting sharps returned to a container. An example method of counting sharps returned to a container having at least two layers of penetrable conductive material includes periodically checking a plurality of circuits formed by the first and second layers of material to determine if each circuit is open or closed, and keeping a count of the number of closed circuits.

Abstract: An RFID tag comprises a magnetic core, a wire wrapped around the core, and an integrated circuit electrically connected to the wire. A metal sleeve has an open first end and an open second end opposing the first end. The sleeve further has at least one impediment to the flow of eddy currents, such as a slit, formed between the first and the second ends. An encapsulating/potting material is used to fix the wire wrapped core and the circuit within the sleeve. A method of making such an RFID tag is also disclosed.