Based on the tip, syringes are classified as Luer-Lok or Non-Luer-Lok syringes. The Luer-Lok syringes have tips such that the needles that can be twisted and locked into the place can be fitted in these tips whereas Non-Luer-Lok tips require needles that can be pressed on to the tip without being twisted into place.
BD Luer-Lok:
These are used where a secure connection with another device is required. The tip is thread for a ‘locking’ fit.
Luer Slip Tip:
A friction-fit connection, this will ensure a connection that is likely to detach.
Eccentric Luer Slip Tip:
Generally used for venipunctures and aspiration of fluids that requires closeness to the skin.
Catheter Tip:
These are used for cleaning catheters, gastrostomy tubes, and other devices.
Syringes come in a number of sizes, ranging from 0.5ml to 60ml. Medication to intravenous lines and irrigate wounds require larger syringes.
The second classification consists of:
Insulin Syringes and Tuberculin Syringes.
Insulin Syringes have following features:
1) Small in size, hold between 0.3 and 1 ml of medication.
2) Calibrated in units (mostly up to 100 units).
3) Designed for self-injection.
4) Used to give subcutaneous injection.
Tuberculin Syringes have following features:
1) Small in size, hold up to 1 ml of fluid
2) Calibrated in millimeters.
3) Has a long thin barrel with a pre-attached needle used for tuberculosis testing.
4) Injected right into the skin (intradermal vaccine).
Needles are mainly differentiated on the basis of length and diameter.
The following are the types of needles:
1. Intravenous needle:
Inserted into the vein of a person.
2. Safety needles:
These are used nowadays in almost all medical settings, to reduce the risk of the patient getting stuck with an infected needle.
3. Winged needle:
It is also named as a butterfly needle, hold by its wings and attach to a slender, flexible catheter line. Various needles commonly utilized with injections gauges in relation to their colors.