A parenteral catheter apparatus (40) comprises a catheter (18) enclosing a needle (20). The needle (20) and catheter (18) have a first position in which a sharp point (22) of the needle (20) extends from the catheter (18) and a second position in which the sharp point (22) is enclosed within a housing (12). Further, a tubular member (15) is connected to the needle (20). The tubular member (15) has a connection means (17) for connection to a fluid container. Thus, fluid can flow through the tube (15) and the needle (20) and in the reverse direction. The needle (20) remains in a fluid pathway of the apparatus at all times.
