HYPODERMIC NEEDLE SAFETY APPARATUS

摘要

The invention concerns a hypodermic needle safety apparatus (10) which is either manufactured as a separate unit for retrofitting to an existing hypodermic needle (28), for example the hypodermic needle of a syringe, or which is connected integrally to the needle. The safety apparatus has an end cap (16) which locates over the tip of the needle when the apparatus is in a safe condition and which can be retracted along the needle during use. A flexible, resilient support structure (20) extends alongside the needle and supports the end cap. In a relaxed state the support structure has an inwardly bowed shape that prevents retraction of the end cap. A deflecting arrangement (22) is provided which can operate to deflect the support structure from the inwardly bowed shape to a shape that allows retraction of the end cap along the needle.