Medical supplies butterfly needles, also known as a winged infusion set, are commonly used to draw blood from superficial veins or to administer medications and intravenous (IV) fluids. Its name comes from the plastic wings on either side of the needle, which provide better control during insertion. While the design of medical supplies butterfly needles may vary, they typically consist of flexible tubing and winged coverings, allowing for more precise placement and easier angle adjustments during use.
Medical Supplies Butterfly Needles Gauge Sizes Explained
When we buy butterfly needles, we should know that butterfly needles come in a variety of sizes, measured by both length and gauge. The gauge refers to the diameter of the needle's bore. Typically, butterfly needle gauges range from 18 to 27, with higher numbers indicating thinner needles with smaller bores. The standard length for a butterfly needle is usually 3/4 of an inch.
Common Uses of Medical Supplies Butterfly Needles
Before we buy butterfly needles, we know butterfly needles are widely used by phlebotomists, nurses, and other medical professionals for drawing blood for routine laboratory tests, including:
Complete blood count (CBC)
Basic metabolic panel (BMP)
Blood enzyme tests
Lipoprotein panel
Tests for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
Due to their design, which includes flexible tubing that connects to a collection container, butterfly needles are often preferred for blood donation as well.
In addition to blood draws, healthcare professionals buy butterfly needles to administer medications such as pain relievers or insulin. They are also occasionally employed for short-term intravenous (IV) infusions, like the gradual delivery of chemotherapy medications.
How Medical Supplies Butterfly Needles Are Used
To use a butterfly needle, the technician grips the plastic wings between their thumb and index finger. Holding the needle with the bevel (the small hole) facing up and the point angled down makes it easier to pierce the skin.
The needle is inserted into the skin at a 45-degree angle and then lowered to enter the vein. A quick, precise insertion is recommended to prevent the vein from rolling or moving. Butterfly needles are particularly useful for stabilizing rolling veins because the technician can grip closer to the needle, allowing for better control and accuracy.
Once inserted, the wings of the butterfly needle are used to stabilize the needle during the procedure.
Pros of Lower Gauge (Larger Bore) Medical Supplies Butterfly Needles
Medical supplies butterfly needles with lower gauge numbers, meaning a larger bore, are often used in specific situations or lab tests. While most butterfly needles are in the 21- to 23-gauge range, sizes like 18- or 20-gauge are considered larger. There are several reasons a healthcare provider or patient might prefer a lower-gauge needle:
Less Prone to Clogging: Larger needles are less likely to clog compared to thinner ones, making them ideal for administering viscous fluids or when multiple samples are required.
More Accurate Samples: A lower gauge needle reduces the risk of hemolysis, where blood cells are damaged during collection. This is particularly important in tests that require whole blood cells, ensuring a more accurate sample.
Faster Blood Draws: In situations where speed is critical, such as during an emergency or when dealing with patients who are nervous about needles, a lower gauge needle can collect blood more quickly, making it preferable for certain blood tests.
Cons of Lower Gauge Medical Supplies Butterfly Needles
While lower gauge butterfly needles offer benefits in terms of speed and accuracy, they also come with some disadvantages:
Increased Discomfort: Larger needles are more likely to cause pain during insertion, which can deter patients from undergoing necessary procedures in the future.
Larger Puncture Wound: Using a lower-gauge needle may result in a larger puncture site, increasing the risk of infection or complications for the patient.
Not Suitable for Small Veins: These needles may not be appropriate for smaller or fragile veins, such as those in the hands or feet, as they could damage the vein or cause tearing.
Pros of Higher Gauge Medical Supplies Butterfly Needles
For certain patients, smaller medical supplies butterfly needles with gauges between 25 and 27 may be necessary. These higher gauge needles are especially useful for individuals with small or fragile veins, though they should be used only when appropriate.
Smaller Puncture Wound: Higher gauge needles create smaller puncture wounds, reducing bleeding and lowering the risk of infection—particularly beneficial for patients with bleeding disorders like hemophilia.
Ideal for Small Veins: Gauges such as 27 or 28 are designed to access small or narrow veins while minimizing pain and the risk of vein damage, making them ideal for delicate veins.
Suitable for Pediatric Patients: Children and infants often require smaller needles. Higher gauges, such as 23 or smaller, are recommended for venipuncture in pediatric cases.
Less Painful: Studies show that higher-gauge needles cause less pain than larger ones, and some patients may even request them for added comfort during procedures.
Good for Insulin Injections: Insulin injections don’t need to penetrate deeply, so patients may prefer thinner, shorter needles. Higher-gauge needles reduce discomfort, making it easier for patients to adhere to their diabetes treatment.
Less Intimidating: Smaller, higher gauge needles tend to look less daunting, which helps ease anxiety in patients who are nervous about needles. This can improve compliance with medical care.
Cons of Higher Gauge Medical Supplies Butterfly Needles
Although higher gauge medical supplies butterfly needles offer reduced discomfort, they are not always the best choice. Some drawbacks include:
Risk of Hemolysis: Needles with gauges 25 or higher can increase the risk of hemolysis, where blood cells break down, compromising the integrity of blood samples. This makes them less suitable for certain lab tests, except in cases involving infants or hard to access veins.
Slower Blood Draw: Smaller needles take longer to draw blood. In situations where speed is critical, such as in emergencies, a lower gauge needle may be more appropriate to avoid delays or discomfort from prolonged procedures.
Yongkang Medical is a leading manufacturer and supplier of high quality bd butterfly needles. We specialize in designing and producing innovative products that meet the needs of our customers and exceed their expectations. Buy butterfly needles online, just contact us: czyk001@163.com or eric@yongkangcn.com
