Apparatus and method for raising a skin wheal

摘要

The sight of a large I.V. needle makes one shiver with fright due to one's association of an I.V. needle with pain. An apparatus and method of anesthetizing the intended site for I.V. needle insertion is provided to reduce or eliminate the pain. In addition, apparatus and method may be used for diagnostic testing purposes to reduce the amount of pain associated with this procedure. The apparatus (10) comprises a storage chamber (12) containing an anesthetizing agent (22) and coupled to a seat member (14). The seat member (14) further holds a needle (16) in place and pierces the storage chamber (12). Alternate embodiments of the apparatus (10) include a seat member (46, 56) which allows the needle (52, 68) to penetrate the storage chamber (40, 62) just prior to use. The apparatus pierces the skin, injects the anesthetizing agent and induces a skin wheal at the intended I.V. site.