A needle assembly having a telescoping shield (3) that extends over the distal end (6) of the needle (2) when released by an actuator (4) that is triggered during a standard sequence of operation of a medical procedure. For example, the telescoping shield (3) extends by means of a compression spring (19) from a starting retracted position to a venipuncture partially extended position during the standard sequence of operation of drawing a blood sample with an evacuated blood collection tube (50) and needle holder (20). After the procedure is complete and the needle is removed from the patient the shield (3) continues to extend to a fully extended and locked position over the distal end (6) of the needle (2) rendering the needle safe and preventing needle stick injuries. <IMAGE>
