CATHETER INSERTION DEVICE WITH RETRACTABLE NEEDLE

摘要

A catheter insertion device (10) is provided for inserting an over-the-needl e catheter (70). The device includes an insertion needle (45) that is retractable into the housing (20) of the device after use to prevent exposur e to the contaminated needle. A needle retainer (60) releasably retains the needle in an extended position against the rearward bias of a biasing elemen t (80). The needle retainer (60) engages the hub (72) of the catheter so that when the catheter (70) is removed from the insertion device (10), the needle retainer automatically releases the needle. The biasing element (80) then propels the needle (45) rearwardly into the housing (20) of the device. A method for inserting a catheter is also provided, in which the needle is hooded by the catheter during the insertion procedure.