Patent ID: 6319232
Filing Date: 2001-11-20
Classification: A61M,Y10S

Abstract:
An apparatus to cover a needle comprising:a collar adapted to engage a first portion of the needle;a shield adapted to cover at least a second portion of the needle, said shield in communication with said collar via a hinge, said hinge allowing said shield to pivot away from a second needle portion;a locking mechanism adapted to provide a temporary locking state and a permanent locking state, said locking mechanism adapted to engage a needle in said temporary locking state when said shield is pivoted so as to cover the second needle portion, said locking mechanism further adapted to controllably engage the needle within said shield in said permanent locking state; wherein said locking mechanism further comprises a one-way lock having a channel portion adapted to enclose said needle thereby providing said permanent locking state; and wherein said one-way lock further comprises a latch and a catch for said latch.