Patent attributes
A retractable safety needle apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a needle holder with opposite proximal and distal ends. A needle assembly is mounted in the needle holder for movement from a first position where a distal cannula projects distally beyond the needle holder and a second position where the distal cannula is entirely within the needle holder. A spring is provided for propelling the needle assembly proximally and into the second position. The needle assembly includes a deflectable actuator for releasably holding the needle assembly in the first position and against the biasing forces of the spring. Portions of the needle holder adjacent the distal end are tapered to facilitate alignment of the needle assembly and to provide visual cues for proper orientation and gripping locations.
