HYPODERMIC NEEDLE Meaning and
Definition
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A hypodermic needle refers to a hollow, fine-tipped medical instrument primarily used for injecting substances, such as medications or vaccines, directly into the body's subcutaneous tissue or veins. The term "hypodermic" originates from the Greek words "hypo," meaning "underneath" or "below," and "derma," meaning "skin," indicating its purpose of penetrating beneath the skin's surface. Typically composed of stainless steel or other sterilized materials, the needle comprises a slender tube, usually with a sharpened or beveled point, attached to a plastic or metal hub. The hub connects to a syringe or other medical device, facilitating the administration of fluids or solutions.
The hypodermic needle's dimensions can vary depending on its intended purpose, with lengths ranging from mere millimeters to a few inches. Needles designed for subcutaneous injections usually possess shorter lengths and thinner gauges, ensuring accurate delivery into the fatty layer of tissue beneath the skin. Conversely, hypodermic needles used for intravenous injections typically have longer lengths and larger-gauged needles, allowing for effective penetration of veins.
Due to its delicate construction, the hypodermic needle necessitates proper handling, storage, and disposal to maintain sterility and prevent injury or infection. Additionally, the use of hypoallergenic materials for needle production aims to minimize allergic reactions in patients. This versatile medical tool plays a vital role in healthcare settings across the globe, serving as a fundamental apparatus for medication administration, blood sampling, vaccinations, and various diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.
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A hollow n. similar to, but smaller than, an aspirating n., attached to a syringe; used for injecting liquids beneath the skin or for withdrawing fluid for examination from an abscess or cyst.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HYPODERMIC NEEDLE
- gypodermic needle
- bypodermic needle
- nypodermic needle
- jypodermic needle
- uypodermic needle
- yypodermic needle
- htpodermic needle
- hgpodermic needle
- hhpodermic needle
- hupodermic needle
- h7podermic needle
- h6podermic needle
- hyoodermic needle
- hylodermic needle
- hy-odermic needle
- hy0odermic needle
- hypidermic needle
- hypkdermic needle
- hypldermic needle
Etymology of HYPODERMIC NEEDLE
The word "hypodermic" originates from the Greek roots "hypo", meaning "under" or "beneath", and "derma", meaning "skin". The term "needle" comes from the Old English "neadl", which refers to a sharp, slender object used for sewing or for medical purposes. So, "hypodermic needle" essentially means a needle that is inserted under the skin.
Similar spelling words for HYPODERMIC NEEDLE
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