Even though they have one basic design, there are many types of needles in use in the health care field today. If you have a medical condition that requires the use of needles and syringes, it’s a good idea to educate yourself on the basics of the equipment.
Needles and syringes, although commonly used as interchangeable terms, are actually two entirely different pieces of equipment.
The syringe is a plastic or glass tube that actually holds the medication. The needle is, of course, the sharp pointed object that attaches to the syringe. Put together, they are used to administer medication into a muscle, just under the skin, or into a vein. Or, they are inserted into a vein to withdraw blood.
Syringes are very basic – there aren’t many differences from one kind of a syringe to another. Needles, however, are an entirely different story. There are short needles for subcutaneous injections, and long needles for amniocentesis. There are thin needles for children and thick needles for biopsies. There are straight needles for injections and curved needles for suturing.
Most people who find themselves in the position of needing to use a needle and syringe combination on a daily basis, or other frequency, will find that a very basic type of needle will work for what they need to do.
For the types of needles that are commonly used by insulin-dependent diabetics or people who are injecting themselves with routine hormone therapy or other types of medications, a few factors are universal. The overall length of the needles is shorter, the needles are of a smaller gauge (diameter), and the syringe that is attached to the needle is clearly marked to allow the patient to ensure they are injecting the correct dosage. Often, these needles are coated to allow for easy penetration in and withdrawal from the skin.
Safety syringes also a good choice for those who must self-administer their medications. They are called safety syringes because they are equipped with a bar that prevents the needle from penetrating too far into the skin or the muscle.
Lancets are also a type of needle, although they are used primarily to collect a small amount of blood for testing and are always disposed of after only one use.
There are a variety of needles and syringes available today. If these are supplies you need on a frequent basis, you will definitely be able to find a product to fit your needs.