A catheter insertion device (10) is provided for inserting an over-the-needle catheter (70). The device (10) includes an insertion needle (30) that is retractable into the housing (20) of the device (10) after use to prevent exposure to the contaminated needle (30). The needle retainer (40) releasably retains the needle (30) in an extended position against the rearward bias of the biasing element (60). The needle retainer (40) engages the hub (72) of the catheter (70) so that when the catheter is removed from the insertion device (10), the needle retainer (40) automatically releases the needle (30). The biasing element (60) then propels the needle rearwards into the housing (20) of the device. Further, a device for inserting a guide wire into a patient is also provided along with methods of inserting the guide wire.
