Venipuncture and Butterfly Needles

Venepuncture Needles for Blood Collection and Short-Term Infusion

Venepuncture needles, also referred to as butterfly or winged infusion sets, are used for controlled access to peripheral veins in blood collection and short-term intravenous therapy. They are particularly suitable for patients with delicate, small or difficult-to-access veins. Their design, featuring flexible wings and an attached tubing system, ensures stable fixation and supports safe and precise handling in clinical practice.

Depending on the application, venepuncture needles are available as standard winged infusion sets, safety venepuncture needles with integrated protection mechanisms, and specialised systems for closed blood collection. Selection depends on the indication, venous condition and clinical requirements related to hygiene and occupational safety.

Which Venepuncture Needle for Which Application?

For Blood Collection

Venepuncture Needles for Blood Collection

For routine venous blood collection, venepuncture needles are used when secure placement in the vein and a controlled exchange of multiple tubes is required. The attached tubing allows smooth handling without placing strain on the puncture site.

For Infusion

Venepuncture Needles for IV Use

For short-term intravenous administration, venepuncture needles provide temporary venous access when long-term catheter placement is not required. Winged infusion sets allow secure positioning and controlled handling during short infusions or medication delivery.

For Safety

Venepuncture Needles with Needle-Stick Protection

Safety venepuncture needles feature integrated protection mechanisms that activate after use to cover the needle. This reduces the risk of needlestick injuries and supports compliance with occupational safety standards in clinical environments.

For Difficult Venous Conditions

Venepuncture Needles for Fragile Veins

Smaller gauge venepuncture needles and butterfly sets are used for patients with delicate, small or difficult-to-access veins. These designs enable a gentler puncture and improved control during insertion, supporting safer and more comfortable procedures.

Key Features of Venepuncture Needles

Venepuncture needles vary in several key specifications depending on clinical use and patient needs. A main factor is needle size (gauge): 21G–23G is commonly used for blood collection, while finer needles up to around 27G are suitable for fragile or difficult veins.

The tubing length affects handling during use. Integrated tubing helps maintain stability at the puncture site and reduces movement when changing collection tubes or connecting infusion systems.

Connection type also differs. Needles are available with Luer or Luer-Lock connectors to ensure secure attachment to syringes, infusion systems or blood collection devices.

Material and finish are important for performance. Precision-ground needles with smooth surfaces support atraumatic puncture and controlled application.

Accessories for Venepuncture Needles

Venepuncture needles are commonly used alongside supporting accessories to ensure safe and efficient clinical workflows.

Blood Collection Tubes

For diagnostic sample collection across a wide range of laboratory tests.

Infusion Sets & Accessories

For connection and administration of short-term infusions.

Sharps Containers

For the safe and hygienic disposal of used needles in clinical environments, helping reduce the risk of needlestick injuries.

Tourniquets

Support vein localisation and facilitate venepuncture procedures.