Disposable Syringe with Needle – Terumo

Description

A disposable syringe with needle is a medical device used for administering injections, withdrawing fluids, or delivering medications. It is designed for single use, ensuring sterility and preventing cross-contamination between patients. After use, the syringe and needle are safely discarded to minimize the risk of infections or needle-stick injuries.

Key Components:

1. Barrel:
   • The transparent barrel is the cylindrical part of the syringe that holds the liquid medication or fluid. It is usually marked with graduated measurements (in milliliters or cubic centimeters) to ensure accurate dosing.
2. Plunger:
   • The plunger is a long rod that fits inside the barrel. It is used to draw in or expel liquid by pulling it back or pushing it forward. The end of the plunger typically has a rubber tip to create a tight seal, ensuring precise fluid movement.
3. Needle:
   • The needle is a sharp, hollow metal tube attached to the syringe, used to pierce the skin and deliver medication or withdraw fluids. The length and gauge (diameter) of the needle vary depending on the medical application.
4. Hub:
   • The hub is the part of the syringe that connects the needle to the barrel. It is typically designed to securely lock the needle in place.
5. Cap:
   • A protective cap covers the needle before use, maintaining its sterility. After the injection, this cap is often discarded as part of the disposal process.

Types of Disposable Syringes:

1. Luer Lock Syringes:
   • These syringes have a threaded tip, allowing the needle to be twisted and locked in place securely. This prevents the needle from coming off during injection.
2. Luer Slip Syringes:
   • The needle is pushed onto the tip of the syringe, allowing for a quick and simple attachment. However, it may not be as secure as the Luer lock type.
3. Insulin Syringes:
   • Specifically designed for insulin administration, these syringes typically come with fine, short needles and are marked with smaller unit measurements for precise dosing.
4. Tuberculin Syringes:
   • These syringes are used for tuberculosis tests and other intradermal injections. They have a fine, small needle and a 1 mL capacity.

Common Uses of Disposable Syringes with Needles:

1. Injection of Medications:
   • Disposable syringes are frequently used to deliver medications into the body via intramuscular, subcutaneous, or intravenous routes.
2. Vaccinations:
   • They are widely used for administering vaccines, such as flu shots or other immunizations.
3. Blood Withdrawal:
   • In medical labs or clinics, disposable syringes may be used to draw blood for diagnostic testing.
4. Fluid Extraction:
   • They are also used to aspirate (remove) fluids from the body, such as pus from an abscess or synovial fluid from a joint.

Advantages:

• Sterility: Disposable syringes are pre-sterilized and packaged individually, ensuring they are free from bacteria or contaminants before use.
• Single-Use: Designed for one-time use, they reduce the risk of transmitting infections or diseases between patients.
• Convenience: Available in a wide range of sizes and needle gauges, they are adaptable for various medical applications.
• Safety: Many disposable syringes are designed with safety features, such as retractable needles or needle caps, to prevent accidental needle-stick injuries.

Disadvantages:

• Environmental Impact: Since they are designed for single use, disposable syringes contribute to medical waste, which requires proper disposal to avoid environmental harm.
• Limited Reuse: Once used, disposable syringes cannot be reused, which can be a limitation in resource-scarce settings unless proper disposal is ensured.

Disposal:

• Sharps Containers: After use, syringes and needles should be disposed of in approved sharps containers to prevent injuries and contamination. These containers are puncture-resistant and designed for the safe disposal of needles and other sharp medical instruments.

Conclusion:

A disposable syringe with needle is a critical tool in modern medical practice, offering a sterile and safe means of administering medication or drawing fluids. Its single-use design reduces the risk of infections and ensures patient safety, making it an essential item in healthcare settings. Proper disposal and adherence to safety protocols ensure that these devices contribute to effective treatment while minimizing potential hazards.