What size butterfly needle should I use?
The common butterfly needles are 1/2 to 3/4 inches long and come in a range of gauges, with 21 and 23 gauge the most frequently used. The smallest gauge, 25, is used primarily with pediatric patients. 1 The short needle length allows the phlebotomist to insert it at a shallow angle that can increase the ease of use.
What gauge needle is a blue butterfly?
23 Gauge Needles 23g needles, also known as butterflies, are used when a person’s vein is much narrower than average. It is light blue color coded. Despite the phlebotomist’s efforts to anchor the vein, the patient may be unwell or have minimal sites to choose a vein from, requiring a smaller needle.
What gauge is orange butterfly needle?
Blood Collection and Infusion Set POR 982512 “3/4″” 25 Gauge Orange Hub Butterfly Winged Needle, Blood Collection and…
Why should butterfly needles be avoided?
Because a needle is left in the arm rather than a catheter or PICC line for the purpose of an infusion, a butterfly needle can damage a vein if the unit is suddenly yanked. Even if the right size needle is used, the needle can become blocked during treatment if not correctly placed.
When should you not use a butterfly needle?
Cons of Higher Butterfly Needle Gauges
- May cause hemolysis: Needles with a gauge size 25 or higher are not always recommended because as needle size gets smaller, the risk of hemolysis increases.
- Takes more time: A smaller needle draws blood at a slower rate than a larger one.
What type of issues can arise from using a butterfly needle?
Among the most commonly cited concerns about butterfly needle usage is that percutaneous needle exposures, and the risk of infectious disease transmission associated with accidental needle sticks in healthcare workers, could be increased with the use of butterfly devices.
Do butterfly needles take longer?
The butterfly needle requires a shallower angle compared to an IV catheter. The smaller-length needle is easier to place more precisely on veins that are especially fragile, small in size, or that roll. Butterfly needles are often used when a person is giving blood, such as for a blood bank.
How long can a butterfly needle stay in?
Though butterfly needles can be left in a vein for five to seven days if properly secured, they are more commonly used for short-term infusions.
Can you run an IV through a butterfly needle?
Can a butterfly needle be used for an IV? Yes, a butterfly needle can be used for an IV, to give fluids or other medications.
Are butterfly needles more expensive?
Because butterfly needles do cost substantially more than vacutainer needles, one question that labs often ponder is why so many nursing staff choose to use butterfly needles for blood collection.