What is a Butterfly Needle?

 

A butterfly needle, also known as a winged infusion set, is a medical device used for the purpose of drawing blood or administering intravenous fluids. It is a small, thin needle attached to flexible tubing with a small “wing” on each side that helps the user to firmly hold the device in place. In this article, we will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of using a butterfly needle and explain how it works.

Definition of a Butterfly Needle

A butterfly needle, also known as a winged infusion set, is a small, two-part device used to draw blood or inject the medication. It consists of a hollow, metal needle attached to a plastic tube known as a cannula. The cannula has two wings that help secure the needle in place and make it easier to handle. The butterfly needle is often used for intravenous (IV) therapy or for blood draws.

The wings of the butterfly needle help make it much easier to insert and maneuver compared to a regular needle. It is much more flexible and can easily be maneuvered into a vein without causing much disruption or discomfort. The wings also provide a better grip so you can keep the needle in place while you make the injection or draw the blood. Read more