Intravenous catheter device having a needle cover that functions as a needle shield - Patents.com

Abstract

The intravenous catheter device may include a needle cover that functions as a needle shield. Using the needle cover as a needle shield simplifies the design and reduces costs of the intravenous catheter device. The needle cover may be configured to slide along the needle hub between a distal-most position where it functions as a needle cover or needle shield and a proximal position where it exposes the needle so that the catheter can be inserted into a patient's vasculature.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] Intravenous (IV) catheter devices are commonly used for a variety of infusion therapies. For example, intravenous catheter devices may be used to infuse fluids, such as saline, various medications, and total parenteral nutrition, into a patient. Intravenous catheter devices are also used to withdraw blood from a patient.

[0002] A common type of intravenous catheter device is the over-needle peripheral intravenous catheter ("PIVC"). As the name suggests, an over-needle catheter is a catheter that can be fitted over a needle with a sharpened distal end. The catheter and needle can be assembled so that the distal tip of the needle extends beyond the distal tip of the catheter and the bevel of the needle points away from the patient's skin.

[0003] Intravenous catheter devices often include a needle shield that secures the sharp distal tip after it is withdrawn from the catheter to prevent accidental needle stick injuries. These needle shields are typically metallic and complex, which increases the cost of the intravenous catheter device. In addition to the needle shield, intravenous catheter devices often also include a needle cover that covers the sharp distal tip of the needle before inserting the catheter into the patient's vasculature. In other words, the needle cover is typically a simple component, such as a cap, that is removed and discarded before inserting the catheter, whereas the needle shield is typically a complex component that secures the distal tip of the needle and the catheter adapter after it is withdrawn from the patient's vasculature. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to embodiments that solve any shortcomings or that operate only in such environments. Rather, this background is only provided to illustrate one example technology area where some implementations described herein may be practiced. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The present disclosure generally relates to an intravenous catheter device having a needle cover that also functions as a needle shield. Using the needle cover as a needle shield simplifies the design and reduces costs of the intravenous catheter device. The needle cover can be configured to slide along the needle hub between a distal-most position where it functions as a needle cover or needle shield and a proximal position where it exposes the needle so that the catheter can be inserted into a patient's vasculature.

[0006] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, an intravenous catheter device can include a catheter assembly, a needle assembly, and a needle cover. The catheter assembly can include a catheter adapter and a catheter extending distally from the catheter adapter. The needle assembly can include a needle hub and a needle extending distally from the needle hub. The needle hub can be coupled to the catheter adapter such that the needle extends through the catheter. The needle cover can be coupled to the needle hub and configured to function as a needle shield after the needle is withdrawn from the catheter adapter.

[0007] In some embodiments, the needle cover may be coupled to the needle hub via one or more channels and corresponding one or more guides.

[0008] In some embodiments, one or more channels may extend along the needle hub and one or more corresponding guides may be formed in the needle cover.

[0009] In some embodiments, each of the one or more channels can include a distal stop and a retaining bump spaced from the distal stop.

[0010] In some embodiments, the retention bump can prevent the corresponding guide from sliding proximally within the channel.

[0011] In some embodiments, each of the one or more channels may include a proximal stop.

[0012] In some embodiments, each of the one or more channels can include a locking slot in which the one or more guides rotate.

[0013] In some embodiments, the needle hub can include one or more inlets corresponding to one or more channels where one or more guides enter the one or more channels.

[0014] In some embodiments, the needle cover can include a channel and the catheter adapter can include a push tab that extends through and slides within the channel.

[0015] In some embodiments, the channel may include a deflection portion.

[0016] In some embodiments, the needle hub can include one or more notches and the needle shield can include one or more support tabs that insert through the one or more notches to assemble the needle hub and the needle shield.

[0017] In some embodiments, the channel in the needle cover may extend from the proximal end to the distal end of the needle cover.

[0018] In some embodiments, the needle cover can include one or more grips.

[0019] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, an intravenous catheter device can include a catheter assembly, a needle assembly, and a needle cover. The catheter assembly can include a catheter adapter and a catheter extending distally from the catheter adapter. The needle assembly can include a needle hub and a needle extending distally from the needle hub. The needle hub can be coupled to the catheter adapter such that the needle extends through the catheter. The needle cover can be coupled to the needle hub and configured to slide along the needle hub from a distal-most position to a proximal position. When the needle cover is in the distal-most position and the catheter adapter is coupled to the needle hub, the needle cover can surround the needle and the catheter. The needle cover can also surround the needle when the needle cover is in the distal-most position and the catheter assembly slides distally from the needle cover.

[0020] In some embodiments, the needle cover includes a channel and the catheter adapter includes a push tab extending through the channel that allows a clinician to slide the catheter adapter distally from the needle cover.

[0021] In some embodiments, the needle hub can include one or more channels and the needle cover can include one or more corresponding guides that slide within the one or more channels.

[0022] In some embodiments, each of the one or more channels can include a retention bump that aligns with a corresponding guide to retain the needle cover in a distal-most position.

[0023] In some embodiments, each of the one or more channels may include a distal stop spaced from the retention bump.

[0024] In some embodiments, when the needle cover is in the proximal position, the needle and catheter may extend distally from the needle cover.

[0025] In some embodiments, the catheter adapter can include a notch and the needle hub can include a protrusion that is inserted into the notch, thereby limiting rotation of the catheter adapter relative to the needle hub.

[0026] In some embodiments, the needle cover can include one or more grips extending outwardly from the proximal end of the needle cover.

[0027] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, an intravenous catheter device can include a catheter assembly, a needle assembly, and a needle shield. The catheter assembly can include a catheter adapter and a catheter extending distally from the catheter adapter. The catheter adapter can include a push tab. The needle assembly can include a needle hub and a needle extending distally from the needle hub. The needle hub can be coupled to the catheter adapter such that the needle extends through the catheter. The needle hub can have one or more channels extending lengthwise along the needle hub. The needle cover can have one or more guides positioned within the one or more channels to couple the needle cover to the needle hub. The one or more guides can be configured to slide within the respective channels. The needle cover can include a channel into which the push tab of the catheter adapter slides.

[0028] In some embodiments, each of the one or more channels can include a distal stop and a retention bump, and each guide can be selectively retained between the distal stop and the retention bump.

[0029] In some embodiments, the needle cover surrounds the needle after it is withdrawn from the catheter adapter.

[0030] In some embodiments, each of the one or more channels may include a locking slot within which the respective guide rotates.

[0031] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are not restrictive of the claimed invention. It is to be understood that the various embodiments are not limited to the arrangements and instrumentalities shown in the drawings. It is also to be understood that the embodiments may be combined or other embodiments may be utilized, and that structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the various embodiments of the present invention, unless so claimed. Therefore, the following detailed description is not to be taken in a limiting sense. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0032] Example embodiments will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows a catheter assembly of the intravenous catheter device of FIG. [Figure 3A] 3A-3D are various views of the needle assembly of the intravenous catheter device of FIG. [Figure 3B] 3A-3B are various views of the needle assembly of the intravenous catheter device of FIG. 1. [Figure 3C] 3A-3C are various views of the needle assembly of the intravenous catheter device of FIG. [Figure 3D] 3A-3D are various views of the needle assembly of the intravenous catheter device of FIG. 1. [Figure 4A] 4A-4D are various views of the needle shield of the intravenous catheter device of FIG. [Figure 4B] 4A and 4B are various views of the needle shield of the intravenous catheter device of FIG. [Figure 4C] 4A-4C are various views of the needle shield of the intravenous catheter device of FIG. [Figure 4D] 4A-4D are various views of the needle shield of the intravenous catheter device of FIG. 1. [Figure 5A] 5A is a cross-sectional view of the intravenous catheter device of FIG. [Figure 5B] 5B is a cross-sectional view of the needle assembly and needle shield of the intravenous catheter device of FIG. 1. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A shows an example of how the intravenous catheter device of FIG. 1 can be used. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B shows an example of how the intravenous catheter device of FIG. 1 may be used. [Figure 6C] FIG. 6C shows an example of how the intravenous catheter device of FIG. 1 may be used. [Figure 6D] FIG. 6D shows an example of how the intravenous catheter device of FIG. 1 may be used. [Figure 7A] FIG. 7A illustrates another example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B illustrates another example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7C] FIG. 7C illustrates another example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7D] FIG. 7D illustrates another example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A illustrates another example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B illustrates another example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8C] FIG. 8C illustrates another example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8D] FIG. 8D illustrates another example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a push tab that may be used with an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a gripping area that may be used with an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 11A] FIG. 11A illustrates another example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B illustrates another example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 11C] FIG. 11C illustrates another example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 11D] FIG. 11D illustrates another example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 12A] FIG. 12A illustrates an example of a needle shield that may be used with an intravenous catheter device configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B illustrates an example of a needle shield that may be used with an intravenous catheter device configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 12C] FIG. 12C illustrates an example of a needle shield that may be used with an intravenous catheter device configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 12D] FIG. 12D illustrates an example of a needle shield that may be used with an intravenous catheter device configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 13]FIG. 13 illustrates an example of how an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure may be assembled. [Figure 14A] FIG. 14A illustrates another example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 14B] FIG. 14B illustrates another example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 14C] FIG. 14C illustrates another example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 14D] FIG. 14D illustrates another example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 14E] FIG. 14E illustrates another example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 14F] FIG. 14F illustrates another example of an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0033] The intravenous catheter device may include a needle cover that functions as a needle shield. Using the needle cover as a needle shield simplifies the design and reduces the cost of the intravenous catheter device. The needle cover may be configured to slide along the needle hub between a distal-most position where it functions as a needle cover or needle shield and a proximal position where it exposes the needle so that the catheter can be inserted into the vasculature of a patient.

[0034] FIG. 1 illustrates an intravenous catheter device 10 configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In FIG. 1, the intravenous catheter device 10 is in a pre-use configuration. The intravenous catheter device 10 includes a catheter assembly 100, a needle assembly 200, and a needle cover 300. The catheter assembly 100 includes a catheter adapter 110 and a catheter 120 extending distally from the catheter adapter 110. The needle assembly 200 includes a needle hub 210 and a needle 220 extending distally from the needle hub 210. In the pre-use configuration, the needle hub 210 can be coupled to the catheter adapter 110 such that the needle 220 extends distally through the catheter 120.

[0035] The needle cover 300 is elongated and tubular and is coupled to the needle hub 210 and extends over the catheter adapter 110, the catheter 120, and the needle 220. In particular, in the pre-use configuration, the distal tip of the needle 220 is contained within the needle cover 300.

[0036] In summary, the needle cover 300 may be configured to slide along the needle hub 210 to function as a needle cover prior to insertion of the catheter 120 and to function as a needle shield when the needle 220 is withdrawn from the catheter adapter 110. When the needle cover 300 is functioning as a needle cover, as well as when it is functioning as a needle shield, the needle hub 210 and the needle cover 300 may be configured to interlock to maintain the distal tip of the needle 220 within the needle cover 300. The needle cover 300 may also be configured to allow the catheter adapter 110 to slide within the needle cover 300 as the catheter 120 is placed within the vein. The needle cover 300 provides integrated safety in that it secures the distal tip of the needle 220 as the needle 220 is withdrawn from the catheter adapter 110. The needle cover 300 also provides safety to medical personnel in that it covers the entirety of the needle 220 when it is functioning as a needle shield. The needle cover 300 is able to provide these advantages with a simple design as described below.

[0037] 2 shows the catheter assembly 100 in isolation. As shown, the catheter adapter 110 can include a push tab 111 extending upwardly from the catheter adapter 110 and a notch 112 formed in the proximal end 110p of the catheter adapter 110. The push tab 111 can include a neck portion 111a and a tab portion 111b having an enlarged width relative to the neck portion 111a. The push tab 111 allows the clinician to advance the catheter adapter 110 while the catheter adapter 110 is housed within the needle cover 300.

[0038] In some embodiments, the push tab of the catheter adapter 110 can be in the form of opposing foldable wings, as opposed to being fixed and rigid as in the illustrated embodiment. For example, the opposing foldable wings of the push tab can be folded together in an upright orientation to extend through the channel 301 of the needle cover 300 (as described below) and function as a push tab. When the catheter adapter 110 is then removed from the needle cover 300, the opposing foldable wings of the push tab can be folded into a flat orientation extending outwardly from opposing sides of the catheter adapter 110. In this flat orientation, the opposing foldable wings of the push tab can function as an anchoring platform for securing the catheter adapter 110 to the skin of a patient.

[0039] In other embodiments, the push tab 111 may include an extension that extends downward and outward from the tab portion 111b to form a fixed platform while not interfering with the needle cover 300. In some embodiments, the catheter adapter 110 may include wings separate from the push tab 111, and the needle cover 300 may be adapted to accommodate the wings. Figures 7A-7D, described in more detail below, show one example of such an embodiment.

[0040] 3A-3D provide various views of the needle assembly 200 in isolation. The needle hub 210 can include a distal end 210d configured to couple to the proximal end 110p of the catheter adapter 110. For example, the distal end 210d can form a tapered tip 211 that is inserted into the proximal end 110p of the catheter adapter 110 to form a friction fit. A protrusion 217 can extend distally from the needle hub 210 in line with the tapered tip 211 and can be shaped and sized to be inserted into a notch 112 in the proximal end 110p of the catheter adapter 110 when the tapered tip 211 is fully inserted into the proximal end 110p. This engagement of the protrusion 217 with the notch 112 can prevent the needle hub 210 from rotating relative to the catheter adapter 110.

[0041] The needle hub 210 may also include one or more channels 212 extending lengthwise along its outer surface. In the illustrated embodiment, the needle hub 210 includes two channels 212 spaced 180° apart on opposite sides of the needle hub 210. As described in more detail below, the needle cover 300 may be configured to slide along the channels 212. A stop 214 may be formed in the channel 212 at or toward its distal end, and a stop 215 may be formed in the channel 212 at or toward its proximal end. The stops 214 and 215 may prevent the needle cover 300 from dislodging from the needle hub 210. In some embodiments, the distal side of the stop 214 may be angled to facilitate assembly. In particular, the angled distal side facilitates sliding the needle cover 300 onto the needle hub 210. A retention bump 213 may also be formed in the channel 212 proximate and spaced from the stop 214. The retention bump 213 may function to retain the needle cover 300 in a distal-most position relative to the needle hub 210, thereby maintaining the distal tip of the needle 220 within the needle cover 300.

[0042] In some embodiments, the proximal end of the needle hub 210 can include a gripping region 216. For example, the gripping region 216 can be a flattened region on an opposing side of the needle hub 210. In some embodiments, the gripping region 216 can include protrusions or other textured elements to enhance grip. The proximal end of the needle hub 210 can also form a flash chamber. For example, the needle hub 210 can be formed of a transparent or translucent material so that blood in the flash chamber is visible to the clinician. The needle hub 210 can also include a vent plug (not shown) to vent air from the flash chamber as blood flows toward and into the flash chamber.

[0043] 4A-4D provide various views of the needle cover 300 in isolation. The needle cover 300 includes a channel 301 that extends lengthwise along the top of the needle cover 300 from the proximal end 300p to the distal end 300d. In this context, "top" refers to the side of the needle cover 300 that typically faces upward during use of the intravenous catheter device 10. The channel 301 allows the push tab 111 to extend through the needle cover 300, allowing the catheter adapter 110 to slide relative to the needle cover 300. Grips 302 may be formed on the proximal end 300p to facilitate sliding the needle cover 300 relative to the needle hub 210. For example, the grips 302 may extend from opposing sides of the needle cover 300 and may be rounded to improve comfort.

[0044] The needle cover 300 may also include a guide 304 that extends inwardly within the needle cover 300 and may be located at or near the proximal end 300p. The guide 304 may be shaped and sized to fit within the channel 212 of the needle hub 210. To couple the needle cover to the needle hub 210, the guide 304 may be aligned with the channel 212 and pressed against the stop 214. As discussed above, the angled distal side of the stop 214 may facilitate sliding of the guide 304 over the stop 214 and into the channel 212. In some embodiments, the guide 304 may include a angled proximal side to further facilitate this sliding.

[0045] In some embodiments, the needle cover 300 may be formed of plastic or other relatively hard material that will not be punctured by the needle 220, including when the needle cover 300 is functioning as a needle shield. Additionally, the diameter or other outer dimension of the needle shield 300 may be sufficient to prevent the needle 220 from extending through the channel 301.

[0046] 5A is a cross-sectional view of the intravenous catheter device 10 in a pre-use configuration. As shown, the tapered tip 211 of the needle hub 210 is inserted into the catheter adapter 110. Although not shown, the protrusion 217 is inserted into the notch 112, thereby preventing the catheter adapter 110 from rotating relative to the needle hub 210. The needle cover 300 is also in a distal-most position relative to the needle hub 210, surrounding the distal tip of the needle 220. In this distal-most position, the guide 304 is located between the stop 214 and the retention bump 213. The guide 304 contacts the retention bump 213, thereby preventing the needle cover 300 from sliding proximally relative to the needle hub 210 until the clinician applies sufficient intentional force.

[0047] 5B is a cross-sectional view showing how the guide 304 engages with the stop 214 and the retention bump 213 in the channel 212. As shown, the retention bump 213 extends sufficiently into the channel 212 to prevent the guide 304 from jumping over the retention bump 213 without deflecting outward. In some embodiments, the proximal side of the guide 304 and the distal side of the retention bump 213 may be angled to facilitate outward deflection when a deliberate force is applied to slide the needle cover 300 proximally relative to the needle hub 210. Also, in some embodiments, the distal side of the guide 304 and the proximal side of the retention bump 213 may be angled to facilitate deflection of the guide 304 when the needle cover 300 is slid distally relative to the needle hub 210 to return the needle cover 300 to its distal-most position. In contrast, the proximal side of stop 214 may not be angled to prevent guide 304 from backing out distally from channel 212. Similarly, the distal side of stop 215 may not be angled to prevent guide 304 from backing out proximally from channel 212.

[0048] 6A-6D show how the intravenous catheter device 10 can be used, and in particular how the needle cover 300 can also be used as a needle shield. FIG. 6A shows the intravenous catheter device 10 in a pre-use configuration, similar to FIG. 1. In this configuration, the guide 304 can be positioned between the stop 214 and the retention bump 213 to prevent the distal tip of the needle 220 from being inadvertently exposed.

[0049] In FIG. 6B, the needle cover 300 is slid proximally relative to the needle hub 210, thereby exposing the needle 220 and the catheter 120. For example, the clinician can use the grip 302 and / or gripping region 216 to apply sufficient force to deflect the guide 304 outwardly over the retention bump 213 and then slide proximally within the channel 212 to fully expose the needle 220 and the catheter 120. In some embodiments, tactile and / or audible feedback (e.g., a snap) may be generated when the guide 304 bypasses the retention bump 213. Notably, in this step, the needle hub 210 and the catheter adapter 110 may remain interlocked such that the needle 220 extends distally from the catheter 120. Thus, the clinician can use the intravenous catheter device 10 in such a configuration to insert the needle 220 and the catheter 120 into the vasculature of a patient.

[0050] 6C, it can be assumed that a clinician has inserted the needle 220 and catheter 120 into the patient's vasculature and used the push tab 111 to advance the catheter adapter 110, and thus the catheter 120, distally relative to the needle 220, thereby properly positioning the catheter 120 within the patient's vasculature. Notably, the presence of the channel 301 allows the catheter adapter 110 to slide within and independently of the needle cover 300. In this step, the needle cover 300 can remain in a proximal position relative to the needle hub 210.

[0051] 6D, the needle hub 210 is slid proximally relative to the needle cover 300, thereby returning the needle cover 300 to its distal-most position. For example, the clinician can use the gripping region 216 and grip 302 to pull the needle hub 210 proximally until the guide 304 advances over the retention bump 213, thereby locking the needle cover 300 in its distal-most position. The clinician can do so before withdrawing the needle 220 from the catheter adapter 110 so that the distal tip of the needle 220 is not exposed. In some embodiments, tactile and / or audible feedback is generated as the guide 304 advances over the retention bump 213, thereby confirming to the clinician when the needle cover 300 is secured in its distal-most position.

[0052] At this point, the needle cover 300 acts as a needle shield, allowing the needle assembly 200 to be safely discarded. Additionally, as the needle 220 is withdrawn from the catheter adapter 110, the needle 220 is contained within the needle cover 300, greatly reducing the risk of blood splashing. In particular, any blood that may escape from the needle 220 is contained within the needle cover 300.

[0053] Figures 7A-7D show an example in which the catheter adapter 110 includes wings and the needle cover 300 is configured to accommodate the wings. In this example, the intravenous catheter device 10 is otherwise similar to the embodiments described above. Figure 7A shows the catheter adapter 110 in isolation, and Figure 7B shows the needle cover 300 in isolation. Figures 7C and 7D are perspective and distal views, respectively, of the intravenous catheter device 10.

[0054] In such an embodiment, opposing wings 113 may extend outwardly from the body of the catheter adapter 110. The wings 113 may be located on or toward the bottom of the catheter adapter 110 (e.g., opposite the push tab 111) and may serve as a fixation platform. Corresponding wing grooves 305 may be formed along the needle cover 300 to accommodate the wings 113 when the needle cover 300 is slid onto the catheter assembly 100.

[0055] 8A-8D show another example of how an intravenous catheter device 10 may be configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the needle cover 300 includes a channel 301 as described above, except that a deflection portion 301a is formed toward the distal end 300d. The deflection portion 301a of the channel 301 may function to prevent the needle cover 300 from being withdrawn from the catheter adapter 110 without rotating the needle cover 300 relative to the catheter adapter 110. Notably, without such rotation, the push tab 111 would contact the distal wall of the deflection portion 301a and prevent further distal movement of the catheter assembly 100 relative to the needle cover 300. As a result, the clinician must perform such a rotation to separate the needle shield 300 from the catheter adapter 110 and thus withdraw the needle 220 from the catheter adapter 110 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 6C and 6D). This rotation requirement may remind the clinician to slide the needle shield 300 to its distal-most position relative to the needle hub 210 before withdrawing the needle 220 from the catheter adapter 110.

[0056] 8A, the grip 302 is located on a medial portion of the needle shield 300 and is in the form of a raised ridge or other raised pattern. In some embodiments, the raised pattern may be in the shape of an arrow pointing proximally to inform the clinician that the needle shield 300 is being withdrawn proximally relative to the catheter assembly 100 to expose the needle 220. In some embodiments, an arrow 218 or other directional indicator may be formed on the proximal end of the needle hub 210 and may function to provide guidance to the clinician regarding rotation of the needle hub 210 relative to the needle shield 300, as described below.

[0057] As best seen in FIGS. 8B-8D, each channel 212 includes a locking slot 212a extending from a side of the channel 212 at the retention bump 213. In other words, the locking slot 212a is configured to receive the guide 304 when the guide 304 passes distally over the retention bump 213 and the needle hub 210 rotates relative to the needle shield 300. When the guide 304 is placed in the locking slot 212a, the needle shield 300 can be prevented from separating from the needle hub 210. In particular, the locking slot 212a forming proximal and distal walls around the guide 304 minimizes the possibility of the needle shield 300 separating from the needle hub 210 when compressive and tensile loads are applied. As best seen in FIG. 8C, the locking slot 212a can be recessed from the channel 212 to form a step that prevents the guide 304 from rotating back into the channel 212. 8B-8D also show that much of the structure of the needle hub 210 that surrounds the tapered tip 211 of the needle hub 210 can be eliminated to reduce the amount of material required to manufacture the needle hub 210. Additionally, the proximal end of the channel 212 can include a retention bump 215a that functions similarly to retention bump 213.

[0058] The intravenous catheter device 10 can be packaged in the configuration depicted in FIGURE 8A with the guide 304 located distal to the retention bump 213. The interface between the protrusion 217 and the notch 112 prevents the needle hub 210 from rotating independently of the catheter adapter 110. Also, because the push tab 111 is rotationally constrained within the channel 301, the needle hub 210 cannot rotate relative to the needle shield 300, preventing the guide 304 from entering the locking slot 212a while the intravenous catheter device 10 is in this initial packaged state.

[0059] To use the intravenous catheter device 10, the clinician can use the grip 302 to pull the needle shield 300 relative to the needle hub 210, thereby causing the guide 304 to pass proximally over the retention bump 213 and slide within the channel 212 until it passes the retention bump 215a (e.g., similar to that shown in FIG. 6B). In some embodiments, an audible snap may occur as the guide 304 passes the retention bump 215a. This proximal movement of the needle shield 300 exposes the distal end of the needle 220. The retention bump 215a can be configured such that the force required to pass the guide 304 distally over the retention bump 215a is greater than the force required to pierce the skin. As a result, the clinician can grip the needle shield 300 while inserting the needle 220 without risk of the needle shield 300 sliding distally relative to the needle hub 210.

[0060] Once the needle 220 is inserted, the clinician can push the catheter adapter 110 distally relative to the needle hub 210 and needle shield 300 to separate the needle hub 210 from the catheter adapter 110 (e.g., similar to that shown in FIG. 6C). The clinician can also pull the needle hub 210 proximally relative to the needle shield 300 until the guide 304 passes distally past the retention bump 213, thereby causing the needle shield 300 to cover the distal tip of the needle 220. At this point, the clinician can rotate the needle shield 300 relative to the needle hub 210 to position the guide 304 in the locking slot 212a. The clinician can also rotate the needle shield 300 relative to the catheter adapter 110 to guide the push tab 111 past the deflection portion 301a and out of the channel 301 (e.g., similar to that shown in FIG. 6D). The clinician can then safely discard the needle assembly 200 and needle shield 300.

[0061] 9 shows an example where the tab portion 111 is elongated to form a pressing surface. In such an embodiment, the top of the tab portion 111 may be angled distally to improve grip.

[0062] 10 provides an example where the gripping region 216 extends distally above the channel 212. In such an embodiment, the length of the needle hub 210 can be shortened because the gripping region 216 is not formed proximal to the channel 212. In such an embodiment, the needle hub 210 can be manufactured as two separate pieces, a distal piece including the gripping region 216 and a proximal piece, which can be assembled using a snap interface, plastic welding, threading, an interference fit, or the like.

[0063] 11A-11D show another example of how an intravenous catheter device 10 may be configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the needle cover 300 includes a channel 301 having a deflection portion 301a as described above, except that the deflection portion 301a is formed toward the proximal end 300p. In the illustrated embodiment, each channel 212 of the needle hub 210 includes an inlet 212b that extends alongside the distal end of the channel 212. A first unidirectional bump 212c may divide the inlet 212b and a second unidirectional bump 212d may divide the inlet 212b from the channel 212. The needle hub 210 may also include one or more notches 219 for receiving the support tabs 306 (see FIG. 12D) of the needle shield 300.

[0064] The inlet 212b facilitates assembly of the intravenous catheter device 10. In particular, to couple the needle shield 300 to the needle hub 210, the support tab 306 and guide 304 can be aligned with the notch 219 and inlet 212b, respectively, and the guide 304 can be inserted into the inlet 212b until it passes the unidirectional bump 212c, as shown in FIG. 13. The unidirectional bump 212c can have a flat proximal surface that prevents the guide 304 from passing distally over it. The needle shield 300 can remain in this position relative to the needle hub 210 while it is packaged.

[0065] To use the intravenous catheter device 10, the needle shield 300 can be rotated relative to the needle hub 210, passing the guide 304 over the one-way bump 212d and into the channel 212. The proximal end of the needle hub 210 can be configured so that the needle shield 300 does not block the support tab 306 as it rotates (e.g., by clearing material between the channel 212 and the opposite inlet 212b). The needle shield 300 can then be slid proximally relative to the needle hub 210, passing the guide 304 over the retention bump 215a to expose the needle 220. Once the needle 220 is inserted and the catheter adapter 110 is advanced, which may include guiding the push tab 111 through the deflection portion 301a, the needle shield 300 can be slid distally relative to the needle hub 210 until the guide 304 passes the retention bump 213, as shown in FIG. 11D. In this position, the support tabs 306 can abut the proximal wall of the needle hub 210 to provide a stronger bond between the needle hub 210 and the needle shield 300. At this point, the needle hub 210 and needle shield 300 can be safely discarded.

[0066] 12A and 12D show an embodiment of a needle shield 300 that may be used with the embodiment of the intravenous catheter device 10 shown in FIGS. 11A and 11D. The needle shield 300 includes a channel 301 having a deflection portion 301a at a proximal end 300p and has a distal opening 301b that selectively opens when the push tab 111 is intentionally depressed. A notch 307 may be formed on opposite sides of the distal opening 301b to facilitate this selective opening by allowing the distal opening 301b to deflect open. As shown in FIG. 12C, in some embodiments, the proximal end of the channel 301 may be widened to facilitate insertion of the push tab 111 during assembly of the intravenous catheter device 10.

[0067] 14A-14F provide another example of a needle shield 300 and needle hub 210 that may be used in embodiments of the present disclosure. The illustrated needle shield 300 is similar to the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 12A-12D with the addition of a notch 308 at the proximal end 300p. The unidirectional bump 212c of the needle hub 210 also includes an angled distal surface 212c1 that interacts with the guide 304 to gradually widen the proximal end 300p and allow the guide 304 to pass over the unidirectional bump 212c. The notch 308 can facilitate this widening of the proximal end 300p at the guide 304. FIG. 14E depicts the intravenous catheter device 10 in a packaged configuration, and FIG. 14F depicts the intravenous catheter device 10 in a locked-after-insertion configuration.

[0068] Thus, an intravenous catheter device constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a simplified design without sacrificing safety. By configuring the needle cover to also function as a needle shield, complex and expensive needle shield components are not required. In addition, the open needle cover facilitates sterilization of the intravenous catheter device.

[0069] The disclosed embodiments encompass several variations from the illustrated embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the needle cover 300 may be formed with one or more channels to form guides that correspond to the needle hub 210. As another example, in some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the channel 212 may be another suitable shape, such as a square, a triangle, a circle, or the like.

[0070] All examples and conditional language described herein are intended for educational purposes to aid in understanding the invention and concepts provided by the inventor to advance the art, and should be construed as not being limited to the specifically recited examples and conditions. Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. 1. An intravenous catheter device comprising: a catheter assembly having a catheter adapter and a catheter extending distally from the catheter adapter; a needle assembly having a needle hub and a needle extending distally from the needle hub, the needle hub being coupled to the catheter adapter such that the needle extends through the catheter; a needle cover coupled to the needle hub, the needle cover configured to act as a needle shield after the needle is withdrawn from the catheter adapter; An intravenous catheter device comprising:

2. The intravenous catheter device of claim 1 , wherein the needle cover is coupled to the needle hub via one or more channels and corresponding one or more guides.

3. The intravenous catheter device of claim 2 , wherein the one or more channels extend along the needle hub and the corresponding one or more guides are formed in the needle cover.

4. The intravenous catheter device of claim 3 , wherein each of the one or more channels includes a distal stop and a retention bump spaced from the distal stop.

5. The intravenous catheter apparatus of claim 4 , wherein each of the one or more channels includes a proximal stop.

6. The intravenous catheter device of claim 2 , wherein each of the one or more channels includes a locking slot about which the one or more guides are rotated.

7. The intravenous catheter device of claim 2 , wherein the needle hub includes one or more inlets corresponding to the one or more channels, such that the one or more guides enter the one or more channels.

8. The intravenous catheter apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the needle cover includes a channel and the catheter adapter includes a push tab that extends through and slides within the channel.

9. The intravenous catheter device of claim 8 , wherein the channel includes a deflection portion.

10. 10. The intravenous catheter device of claim 1, wherein the needle hub includes one or more notches and the needle shield includes one or more support tabs that are inserted through the one or more notches to assemble the needle hub and the needle shield.

11. The intravenous catheter apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the catheter adapter includes wings and the needle cover includes wing grooves into which the wings slide.

12. 1. An intravenous catheter device comprising: a catheter assembly having a catheter adapter and a catheter extending distally from the catheter adapter; a needle assembly having a needle hub and a needle extending distally from the needle hub, the needle hub being coupled to the catheter adapter such that the needle extends through the catheter; a needle cover coupled to the needle hub and configured to slide along the needle hub from a distal-most position to a proximal position, wherein when the needle cover is in the distal-most position and the catheter adapter is coupled to the needle hub, the needle cover surrounds the needle and the catheter, and when the needle cover is in the distal-most position and the catheter assembly slides distally off the needle cover, the needle cover surrounds the needle; 1. An intravenous catheter device comprising:

13. 13. The intravenous catheter device of claim 12, wherein the needle cover includes a channel and the catheter adapter includes a push tab extending through the channel, the push tab enabling a clinician to slide the catheter adapter distally from the needle cover.

14. The intravenous catheter apparatus of claim 12 , wherein the needle hub includes one or more channels and the needle cover includes one or more guides that correspond to slide within the one or more channels.

15. The intravenous catheter device of claim 14 , wherein each of the one or more channels includes a retention bump that aligns with a corresponding guide to retain the needle cover in a distal-most position.

16. The intravenous catheter device of claim 15 , wherein each of the one or more channels includes a distal stop spaced from the retention bump.

17. 13. The intravenous catheter apparatus of claim 12, wherein the catheter adapter includes a notch and the needle hub includes a protrusion that inserts into the notch to limit rotation of the catheter adapter relative to the needle hub.

18. 1. An intravenous catheter device comprising: a catheter assembly having a catheter adapter and a catheter extending distally from the catheter adapter, the catheter adapter including a push tab; a needle assembly having a needle hub and a needle extending distally from the needle hub, the needle hub being coupled to the catheter adapter such that the needle extends through the catheter, the needle hub having one or more channels extending longitudinally along the needle hub; a needle cover having one or more guides disposed within the one or more channels to couple the needle cover to the needle hub, the one or more guides being configured to slide within respective ones of the channels, the needle cover including a channel into which the push tab of the catheter adapter slides; An intravenous catheter device comprising:

19. 20. The intravenous catheter device of claim 18, wherein each of the one or more channels includes a distal stop and a retention bump, each of the guides being selectively retained between the distal stop and the retention bump.

20. The intravenous catheter apparatus of claim 19 , wherein each of the one or more channels includes a locking slot about which the respective guide rotates.

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