Patent ID: 8182448
Filing Date: 2012-05-22
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
1. A retractable needle for use with an intravenous catheter having a body proximal to a catheter, a housing distal from the catheter, and a plug separating the housing and the body, the needle comprising: a hollow full diameter portion that extends through the catheter adjacent the body; a flat portion that extends from the housing, through a through hole in the plug, and extends into the body, the diameter of the flat portion being less than that of the full diameter portion; a transitional portion located between the full diameter portion and the flat portion configured to interface with the plug to gradually transfer compressive forces upon retraction of the needle from the catheter; and a flash hole disposed in the full diameter portion of the needle, the flash hole being aligned with a flash window in the intravenous catheter, the flash hole shaped and located such that blood is shot from the flash hole toward the flash window for detection of blood; wherein the flat portion is selectively configured to generate less compressive force on the plug than the full diameter portion and the transitional portion while the retractable needle is in an extended position.