IV catheter introducer with retractable needle

Abstract

An IV catheter introducer having a retractable needle holder and a tubular plunger that are held by a detent structure in a preferred positional relationship prior to and during insertion of the catheter. Following insertion, the plunger is pushed past the detent structure, permitting a compressed spring to force the needle holder upwardly into the plunger. A vented end cap in the plunger permits rapid venting of air displaced during retraction of the needle holder. The needle holder includes a flash chamber that is easily viewable through a clear plastic housing. Wings are provided on the housing to facilitate one-handed operation of the device. A method for assembling the subject catheter introducer is also disclosed.

1 . An IV catheter introducer comprising a tubular housing; a needle holder assembly having a tubular body slidably engaged inside the housing; a retraction mechanism seated in an annular space between the housing and the needle holder assembly; a plunger assembly having a plunger tube releasably engaged with the tubular body inside the housing; and a catheter attached by frictional engagement to the tubular housing; wherein 
 the needle holder assembly comprises a flash chamber with an interior space that is viewable through no more than two layers of clear plastic.