Butterfly needle

Butterfly Needle

A butterfly needle is a device used by medical professionals to access a vein for the purpose of drawing blood or administering medication. It is also known as a winged infusion set or scalp vein set due to its wing-like appearance.

Design and Function

The butterfly needle consists of a thin, stainless steel needle attached to a flexible, thin tubing. The needle is typically 1/2 to 3/4 inches long, with a gauge (diameter) ranging from 18 to 27. The smaller the gauge number, the larger the needle's diameter. The needle is connected to a plastic wing-shaped holder, which gives the device its butterfly-like appearance.

The butterfly needle is designed to provide a more comfortable and less traumatic experience for patients, especially those with small or difficult-to-access veins. The wings allow for better control during insertion, and the flexible tubing reduces the risk of the needle dislodging during use.

Usage

Butterfly needles are commonly used in phlebotomy, the process of drawing blood for testing. They are also used for administering medications or fluids directly into the vein, a process known as intravenous therapy.

To use a butterfly needle, the healthcare professional first cleans the site of insertion with an antiseptic. The needle is then inserted into the vein at a low angle, and the wings are held steady to keep the needle in place. Once the needle is in the vein, blood can be drawn into an attached vial or tube, or medication can be administered through the tubing.

Advantages and Disadvantages

The main advantage of butterfly needles is their ability to access small or difficult-to-reach veins. This makes them particularly useful for drawing blood from children, elderly patients, or individuals with small or fragile veins.

However, butterfly needles are more expensive than traditional straight needles and can cause more discomfort during insertion due to their smaller gauge. They also carry a higher risk of needlestick injuries for healthcare workers.

See Also

• Phlebotomy
• Intravenous therapy
• Medical needle