UNIVERSAL PASSIVE PROTECTOR FOR AN IV CATHETER

摘要

A universal passive protector (20) for an IV catheter (22) is provided. The protector comprises an over-the-needle catheter (2) including a proximal hub (24). The hub (24) is secured within a hub trap (32) comprising first and second interlocking arms (30). The hub trap (32) is secured to a distal end of a tubular sheath (34). A slider (38) is disposed about the sheath (24), and connected to a proximal end of the needle (40) through a slit (36) in the sheath (34). When the slider (38) is in a distal position, the needle (40) maintains the arms (30) in a closed configuration wherein the hub (24) is secured to the hub trap (32). When the slider (38) is moved to a proximal position, the needle (40) moves to a proximal position wherein the needle (40) no longer maintains the arms (30) in a closed position. The arms (30) snap to an open position, releasing the hub (24) and trapping the sharp distal tip of the needle (40) within the sheath (34). Medical technicians are thus protected against accidental needle sticks.