Hypodermics, also known as hypodermic needles or syringe needles, are medical devices used for injecting fluids or medications into the body, typically through the skin. These needle-like tools consist of a thin, hollow, and sharp metal tube attached to a syringe. The word "hypodermic" originates from the Greek words "hypo," meaning under, and "derma," meaning skin, highlighting the mechanism of administering substances below the surface of the skin.
The primary purpose of hypodermics is to deliver medications directly into the bloodstream, subcutaneous tissue, or muscles, allowing for a rapid and precise distribution of treatments. Hypodermics are widely employed in various medical settings, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, for a range of purposes, such as vaccinations, blood draws, insulin administration, and intravenous drug delivery.
These devices are manufactured in different lengths, gauges (diameters), and tip styles to accommodate diverse medical procedures and patient needs. The gauge is denoted by a numerical value, with lower numbers indicating larger diameters. Thinner gauges, such as 25 or 27, are commonly used for less invasive procedures, whereas thicker gauges like 18 or 20 are suitable for thicker fluids or intramuscular injections.
It is crucial to handle and dispose of hypodermic needles safely to prevent the transmission of infections. Proper disposal methods, such as needle containers or sharps disposal units, should be followed to ensure the wellbeing of healthcare professionals, patients, and the general public.
