SOFT PUSH TALKS FOR CATHETER ADAPTER.

Abstract

An IV catheter system (100) is provided, comprising a catheter component (102) and a needle component (104). The catheter component includes a catheter hub (120), a cannula (126) extending distally from the catheter hub, and a pusher element (190) extending outward from the catheter hub. The pusher element has an outer surface (420) that is contacted by a finger to move the IV catheter system from an insertion configuration, in which the needle is inside the cannula, to a fluid delivery configuration, in which the needle is outside the catheter hub. The needle component includes a needle hub (150) and a needle (154) extending distally from the needle hub.The pusher element is made of a flexible material that causes the pusher element, in response to the pressure exerted on the outer surface by a dressing that secures the catheter component to a patient, to deflect the outer surface towards the axis of the cannula.

Description

SOFT PUSH TALKS FOR CATHETER ADAPTER Field of Invention The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for intravenous (IV) delivery, whereby fluids can be administered directly into a patient's vascular system. More particularly, the present invention relates to IV catheter systems and methods that facilitate insertion into the patient and / or movement from an insertion configuration to a fluid delivery configuration in which the fluid can be delivered to the patient through the IV catheter system. An IV catheter system according to the invention is used broadly herein to describe components used to deliver fluid to the patient, for use in arterial, intravenous, intravascular, peritoneal, and / or non-vascular fluid administration. Of course, a person skilled in the field may use an IV catheter system to administer fluids to other locations within a patient's body. Background of the Invention Current IV catheter systems and methods have numerous shortcomings. Many of these systems require the healthcare professional to use both hands. Ref. 287198 - 2. To position the IV catheter system and / or insert the needle into the fluid delivery site in the patient (e.g., the vein into which the fluid will be administered). In addition, many of these systems require the healthcare professional to use both hands to move the IV catheter system from the insertion configuration to a fluid delivery configuration, in which the needle is removed from the cannula to allow the fluid to be delivered into the vein through the cannula. Therefore, the healthcare professional is required to stabilize the patient's arm or other body part containing the fluid delivery site before inserting the IV catheter system. As a result, additional time is needed for the healthcare professional to initiate the transfusion.Furthermore, the healthcare professional is unable to perform any other task, such as stabilization or further verification of the patient, during insertion and / or movement to the fluid delivery setup. Additionally, common IV systems often have protruding rigid elements that extend outward from the wound site where the needle is inserted. These rigid elements can snag or pierce adhesives, bandages, or other dressings, such as those used to hold the needle in place. - 3rd position. Consequently, there is a need for IV catheter systems and methods that facilitate the placement, insertion, and / or preparation of the IV catheter system for fluid delivery without the need for rigid, protruding components. There is an additional need for these IV catheter systems to be inexpensive, easy to manufacture, and versatile. Summary of the Invention The embodiments of the present invention generally relate to an IV catheter system designed to protect dressings used to hold the catheter component in place. In some embodiments, the IV catheter system can be inserted and moved into the fluid delivery configuration with only one hand. In one modality, the IV catheter system may have a catheter component and a needle component. The catheter component may have a catheter hub with a distal end and a proximal end. The catheter hub may be shaped to define a chamber extending between the distal and proximal ends, and a needle port at the proximal end that provides access to the chamber. The catheter component may also have a cannula extending distally from the proximal end. - 4. Distal catheter hub along a cannula axis and a pusher extending outward from the catheter hub. The pusher element may have an outer surface positioned to receive finger contact so that the finger propels the IV catheter system to move from the insertion configuration to the fluid delivery configuration. The catheter component may have a needle hub with a distal needle hub end and a proximal needle hub end, and a needle extending distally from the distal needle hub end along a needle axis. In an insertion configuration, the needle may be positioned inside the cannula, and the distal needle hub end may be housed in the needle orifice. In a fluid delivery configuration, the needle may be positioned outside the catheter hub.The push element may be made of a flexible material that causes the push element, in response to pressure exerted on the outer surface by a dressing that secures the catheter component to a patient, to flex so that the outer surface deflects towards the cannula axis. The needle component may also have a handle extending from the needle hub, usually parallel to the needle axis. The handle may have an element - 5 pull. The push element and the pull element can be positioned to receive contact from one or more additional fingers of the same hand so that the finger pushes the IV catheter system to move from the insertion configuration to the fluid delivery configuration. The catheter component may also have a securing platform with a first fin extending from the catheter hub, generally parallel to the cannula axis so that, in the fluid delivery configuration, the first fin rests against the skin of a patient receiving fluid through the IV catheter system. In the insertion configuration, the first fin and the handle are generally parallel to each other and may be positioned butt-to-butt. During movement of the IV catheter system from the insertion to the fluid delivery configuration, the handle may slide along the first fin. The push element may be a tab positioned closer to the distal end of the catheter hub than to the proximal end. The catheter component may also have a pad positioned near the proximal end. The pad may have a surface texture selected for friction engagement with the fingers or another finger. - 6 the same hand as the finger. Alternatively, the push element may be a tab usually positioned equidistant from the distal end of the catheter hub and the proximal end of the catheter hub. The outer surface may be on a first projection substantially perpendicular to the axis of the cannula. The pushing element may further have a plurality of additional projections generally oriented parallel to the first projection. The pusher element may be made of a material with a lower durometer value than the catheter hub. The catheter hub may also have an opaque component molded as a single piece with the pusher element. The catheter hub may also have a translucent component that defines at least one chamber wall such that the blood inside the chamber is visible from outside the chamber through at least one wall. The pusher element may have a plurality of adjacent surfaces that are adjacent and angled to the outer surface. Furthermore, the pusher element may have a plurality of loops positioned to join the outer surface to each of the adjacent surfaces in a manner that prevents perforation of the dressing. 7. In another modality, an IV catheter system may have a catheter component and a needle component. The catheter component may have a catheter hub with a distal end and a proximal end. The catheter hub may have a translucent component that defines at least one wall of a chamber extending between the distal and proximal ends, and a needle port in the proximal end that provides access to the chamber. The catheter component may also have a cannula extending distally from the distal end along a cannula shaft and a tab extending outward from the catheter hub. The tab may be made of a material with a lower durometer value than the translucent component.The needle component may have a needle hub with a distal and a proximal end, and a needle extending distally from the distal end of the needle hub along a needle shaft. In an insertion configuration, the needle may be positioned inside the cannula, and the distal end of the needle hub may be housed in the needle hole. In a fluid delivery configuration, the needle may be positioned outside the catheter hub. - 8 The needle component may additionally have a handle extending from the needle hub, generally parallel to the needle axis. The handle includes a pull element. The pull element and the pull element may be positioned to receive contact from one or more fingers of a single hand to drive the IV catheter system from the insertion configuration to the fluid delivery configuration. The catheter component may further have a securing platform with a first wing extending from the catheter hub, generally parallel to the cannula axis, such that, in the fluid delivery configuration, the first wing rests on the skin of a patient receiving fluid through the IV catheter system. In the insertion configuration, the first wing and the handle are generally parallel to each other and may be positioned butt-to-butt.During the movement of the IV catheter system from the insertion configuration to the fluid delivery configuration, the handle may slide along the first fin. The tab may have an outer surface positioned to receive contact from a finger such that the finger propels the IV catheter system to move from the insertion configuration to the fluid delivery configuration and a plurality of surfaces - 9 adjacent surfaces that are adjacent to, and angled relative to, the outer surface. In addition, the tab may have a plurality of loops positioned to join the outer surface with each of the adjacent surfaces in a manner that prevents perforation of a dressing that secures the catheter component to a patient. The catheter hub may also have an opaque component formed as a single piece with the tab. The opaque component may cooperate with the translucent component to define the chamber. In another configuration, an IV catheter system may have a catheter component and a needle component. The catheter component may have a catheter hub with a distal end and a proximal end. The catheter hub may be shaped to define a chamber extending between the distal and proximal ends, and a needle port at the proximal end provides access to the chamber. The chamber component may also have a cannula extending distally from the distal end along a cannula axis and a pusher extending outward from the catheter hub. The pusher may have an outer surface positioned to receive contact with a - 10. A finger such that the finger propels the IV catheter system to move from the insertion configuration to the fluid delivery configuration; a plurality of adjacent surfaces that are adjacent to and angled relative to the outer surface; and a plurality of loops positioned to join the outer surface to each of the adjacent surfaces in a manner that prevents perforation of a dressing that secures the catheter component to a patient. The needle component may have a needle hub with a distal needle hub end and a proximal needle hub end, a needle extending distally from the distal needle hub end along a needle axis, and a handle extending from the needle hub, generally parallel to the needle axis; the handle comprising a pulling element.In an insertion configuration, the needle can be placed inside the cannula, and the distal end of the needle hub can be housed in the needle bore. In a fluid delivery configuration, the needle can be placed outside the catheter hub. The pusher element can be made of a flexible material that causes it to bend in response to pressure exerted on its outer surface by the dressing, deflecting the outer surface away from the cannula axis. The pusher and puller elements can be positioned separately. - 11 to receive contact from one or more additional digits of the same hand so that the finger drives the IV catheter system to move from the insertion configuration to the fluid delivery configuration. The catheter component may further have a securing platform with a first fin extending from the catheter hub, generally parallel to the cannula axis so that, in the fluid delivery configuration, the first fin rests on the skin of a patient receiving fluid through the IV catheter system. In the insertion configuration, the first fin and the handle may generally be parallel to each other and may be positioned in a butt relationship to each other. During movement of the IV catheter system from the insertion configuration to the fluid delivery configuration, the handle may slide along the first fin.The thrust element may be made of a material that has a lower durometer value than that of the catheter cube. The pusher element may have a tab positioned closer to the distal end of the catheter hub than to the proximal end. The catheter component may also have a pad positioned near the proximal end of the catheter hub. The pad may have a surface texture selected to provide frictional engagement with a finger or another finger of the same hand. The catheter hub may further have an opaque component molded as a single piece with the pusher element, and a translucent component that defines at least one chamber wall. Blood inside the chamber may be visible from outside the chamber through at least one wall. These and other features and advantages of the present invention can be incorporated in certain embodiments of the invention and will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or can be learned from the practice of the invention as set forth below. The present invention does not require that all the advantageous elements and all the advantages described herein be incorporated in every embodiment of the invention. Brief Description of the Figures In order to facilitate understanding of the order in which the elements and advantages of the invention mentioned above are obtained, a more detailed description of the invention briefly described above will be shown with reference to specific embodiments thereof, illustrated in the accompanying figures. These figures show only - 13 typical modalities of the invention and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the invention. Figure 1 is a perspective view of an IV catheter system according to a modality; Figures 2A and 2B are top and bottom perspective views, respectively, of a portion of the IV catheter system in Figure 1; Figure 3 is a side elevation view of the IV catheter system of Figure 1 in the insertion configuration, with a finger placed over the tab to propel the IV catheter system to move from the insertion configuration to the fluid delivery configuration; Figures 4A and 4B are perspective and side elevation views, respectively, of the catheter component of the IV catheter system in Figure 1, placed under a dressing; Figure 5 is a perspective view of the needle and catheter component of an IV catheter system according to an alternative modality; Figures 6A and 6B are perspective and side elevation views, respectively, of a catheter component of an IV catheter system according to another alternative modality; Figures 7A and 7B are viewed in perspective and in - 14 lateral elevation, respectively, of a catheter component of an IV catheter system according to another alternative modality; Figure 8 is a perspective view of a catheter component of an IV catheter system according to another alternative modality; Figures 9A and 9B are perspective and side elevation views, respectively, of a catheter component of an IV catheter system according to an additional alternative modality; and Figure 10 is a flow diagram showing a method of preparing an IV catheter system to deliver fluid to a patient, according to a modality. Detailed Description of the Invention The currently preferred embodiments of the present invention can be understood with reference to the figures, where similar reference numbers indicate identical or functionally similar elements. It will be readily understood that the components of the present invention, as generally described and illustrated in the figures herein, can be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed description, as represented in the figures, is not intended to limit the scope of the - 15 invention as claimed but is merely representative of currently preferred embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, figures may show simplified or partial views, and the dimensions of elements in figures may be exaggerated or otherwise out of proportion for the sake of clarity. Additionally, the singular forms *a*, *one*, and *the* include references to the plural forms, unless the context clearly determines otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to a terminal includes a reference to one or more terminals. Furthermore, when referring to a list of elements (e.g., elements *a*, *boc*), the reference is intended to include any of the listed elements by themselves, any combination thereof, and / or a combination thereof. The term substantially means that the characteristic, parameter, or value mentioned need not be obtained exactly, but deviations or variations, including for example tolerances, measurement errors, limitations of measurement accuracy, and other factors known to those experts in the field, may occur in quantities that do not impede the effect that the characteristic is intended to provide. - 16 As used herein, the terms proximal, superior, above, or upward refer to a location on the device that is closest to the healthcare professional using the device and farthest from the patient in relation to whom the device is used when the device is used in normal operation. Conversely, the terms distal, below, at the bottom, or downward refer to a location on the device that is farthest from the healthcare professional using the device and closest to the patient in relation to whom the device is used when the device is used in normal operation. As used herein, the term "in" or "inward" refers to a location relative to the device where, during normal use, it is located toward the inside of the device. Conversely, as used herein, the term "outward" or "outward" refers to a location relative to the device where, during normal use, it is located toward the outside of the device. Furthermore, as used herein, a cannula is a tube that can be inserted into the body for the delivery and / or withdrawal of fluid. A cannula may be rigid or flexible and may be made of any material, including but not limited to metals. - 17 ceramic materials, polymers, elastomers and composite materials. Figure 1 is a perspective view of an IV 100 catheter system according to one modality. The IV 100 catheter system may be connected to a fluid supply to be delivered by infusion. The fluid supply (not shown) may include a blood or medication bag to be administered to a patient, a drip chamber that regulates fluid flow to the IV 100 catheter system, and / or other components involved with fluid delivery to the IV 100 catheter system. The IV 100 catheter system may have several components, as shown in the exemplary modality in Figure 1. These components may include a catheter component 102, a needle component 104, an extension tube 106, a clamp 108, a Y-adapter 110, and / or a confirmation chamber receptacle (not shown). The catheter component 102 can be inserted into the patient's fluid delivery site to transfer fluid. The needle component 104 facilitates the insertion of the catheter component 102 into the fluid delivery site. The extension tube 106 transfers fluid to the catheter component 102. The clamp 108 can be used to manually block fluid flow to the component. - 18 of catheter 102 when it is desired to stop or pause the fluid delivery. The Y-adapter 110 may have luer lock couplings that easily connect to the fluid supply and / or other fluid-carrying components, for example, by means of a supplementary luer lock (not shown) of the fluid supply or other fluid components. The confirmation chamber receptacle is an optional component and may have a confirmation chamber that receives blood when the IV catheter system has been positioned to access a blood vessel. The confirmation receptacle in this way can indicate proper insertion of the IV catheter system 100. As shown in Figure 1, the IV catheter system 100 can be an integrated IV catheter system, insofar as the extension tube 106 is pre-attached to the catheter component 102. In other modalities, IV catheter systems of various open, integrated and / or integrated safety configurations can be used. With reference to Figures 2A and 2B, top and bottom perspective views are presented, respectively, showing portions of the IV catheter system 100 of Figure 1. The catheter component 102 may have various parts, which may include a catheter hub 120, - 19 a securing platform 122, an extension tubing joint 124 and a cannula 126. The catheter hub 120 may have a generally tubular and / or hollow conical configuration, and may have a proximal end 130 and a distal end 132. The catheter hub 120 may have a translucent component 138 that is shaped to define a chamber 134 through which fluid flows to reach the fluid delivery location. The catheter hub 120 may have a needle hole 133 at the proximal end 130. The chamber 134 may contain a septum 139 that is designed to block the flow of blood and / or fluid to be delivered from the chamber 134 through the needle hole 136. The cannula 126 may be secured to the distal end 132 of the catheter hub 120 and may extend proximally from the distal end 132 along a cannula shaft 128. The securing platform 122 may have a generally flat configuration designed to allow the securing platform 122 to be secured to the patient's skin, approaching the fluid delivery location, to securely hold the catheter component 102 in place as fluid delivery is performed. As shown in Figure 1, the securing platform 122 may have a first wing 140 with a generally flat shape. The first wing 140 may be - 20 is fixedly secured to the catheter hub 120 and may have a rounded profile when viewed along a direction perpendicular to the securing platform 122. The first fin 140 may have a front edge 142 close to the distal end 132 and a rear edge 144 close to the proximal end 130 of the catheter hub 120. The securing platform 122 may also include a second fin 146, which may be coplanar with the first fin 140. The second fin 146 may extend away from the catheter hub 120 in a direction generally opposite to that of the first fin 140 and may optionally be symmetrical to the first fin 140. The second fin 146 may also have a leading edge 142 close to the distal end 132 and a trailing edge 144 close to the proximal end 130 of the catheter hub 120. The first fin 140 and the second fin 146 together may provide a variety of options for securing the catheter component 102 for insertion and / or movement into the fluid delivery configuration. The first wing 140 and the second wing 146 may not be coplanar with the cannula axis 128 but, instead, may be offset from the cannula axis 128. In this way, the first wing 140 and the second wing 146 may not intersect the midline of the catheter hub 120. The first wing 140 may optionally be - 21 integrated with, and / or secured to the extension pipe joint 124 such that the extension pipe joint 124 divides the first fin 140 into a front portion and a rear portion having a rear edge 144. In this manner, the axis of the extension pipe joint 124 can be coplanar with the cannula axis 128, or alternatively, it can be coplanar with the first fin 140 and deviate from the cannula axis 128. The needle component 104 may have a needle hub 150, a handle 152, and a needle 154. The needle hub 150 may be detachably coupled to the catheter hub 120 of the catheter component 102. The handle 152 may extend outward from the needle hub 150. The needle 154 may be removably positioned within the cannula 126 so that the needle 154 facilitates the procedure of accessing the fluid delivery site (e.g., a vein) and proper placement of the cannula 126 to deliver fluid to the fluid delivery site. The needle 154 may extend distally from the needle hub 150 along a needle shaft, which may be coincident with the cannula shaft 128 when the IV catheter system 100 is in an insertion configuration. In Figures 1 and 2A, the IV catheter system 100 is between the insertion configuration and the fluid supply configuration, with the component of - 22 needle 104 partially removed from the proximal end 130 of the catheter hub 120. The needle hub 150 may have a generally tubular shape with a proximal end 160 and a distal end 162. The distal end 162 may have a recess 164 that makes it easier for the health care professional to grasp the catheter component 102, as will be shown and described subsequently. Handle 152 may have a generally flat shape extending outwards from the needle hub 150. When viewed from a direction perpendicular to handle 152, handle 152 may have a curved shape that conforms to the shape of the second fin 14 6 of the securing platform 122 of the catheter component 102. Specifically, handle 152 may additionally have a mid-portion 166 and a lateral portion 168 separated from the mid-portion 166 by a wall 170. The wall 170 may be shaped to match the outer contour of the second flange 146 so that when the IV catheter system 100 is in the insertion configuration, the second flange 146 rests against the mid-portion 166 and the wall 170. The thickness of the lateral portion 168 may be greater than that of the mid-portion 166 so that, in the insertion configuration, the upper surface of the lateral portion 168 is in the - 23 same plane as the upper surface of the second fin 146. The handle 152 may also have a front edge 172, which can operate as a pulling surface on which a finger (e.g., one of the fingers or the thumb) of a health professional can be placed to propel the needle component 104 to move close to the catheter component 102, as will be described subsequently. The handle 152 and the securing platform 122 may each have one or more handle elements 180, which may facilitate the attachment of the catheter component 102 and / or the needle component 104 and / or moving the IV catheter system 100 between the insertion configuration and the fluid delivery configuration. The handle elements 180 may have various shapes and locations, which may include stops, protrusions, and / or combinations thereof. Furthermore, the catheter component 102 may have a tab 190 which can operate as a pusher element, as described below. The tab 190 may extend outward from the cannula axis 128 along a direction generally perpendicular to the cannula axis 128. Specifically, the tab 190 may have a plurality of projections 192, each of which extends away from the cannula axis 128, along - 24 directions generally perpendicular to the cannula axis 128. Each of the projections 192 can be oriented generally transversely to the cannula axis 128 so as to define a push element 194 with an accessible, relatively wide shape. The push elements 194 can be the proximally oriented surface of the projections 192. In some embodiments, the tab 190 may be formed as a single piece with the securing platform 122 and may be connected to the securing platform 122 by arms 196 extending around the periphery of the catheter hub 120, from the tab 190 to the securing platform 122. In this way, the tab 190 and the securing platform 122 may be formed from the same material by injection molding or other processes. This material may be an elastomeric material or another material with a low durometer value that is relatively soft against the patient's skin and / or the dressings used to hold the catheter component 102 in place during fluid delivery. For example, some embodiments of the present invention comprise a material with a low durometer value having a durometer hardness from approximately 30 Shore A to approximately 90 Shore D.In some cases, a material with a low durometer value comprises a hardness. - 25 durometer from approximately 50 Shore A to approximately 90 Shore D. In some models, the 190 tab and / or the 122 securing platform may be made of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or similar. With reference to Figure 3, a side elevation view shows the IV catheter system 100 of Figure 1 in the insertion configuration, with finger 300 placed over tab 190 to drive the IV catheter system 100 from the insertion configuration to the fluid delivery configuration. In the insertion configuration shown in Figure 3, the needle hub 150 of needle component 104 can be positioned adjacent to the proximal end 130 of catheter hub 120 of catheter component 102 such that the needle 154 extends through the cannula 126 to provide a sharp point (not shown) for tissue piercing and to hold the cannula 126 during its insertion through the tissue. In this way, in the insertion configuration, the IV 100 catheter system can be easily inserted to place the 126 cannula in the fluid delivery location.In the insertion configuration, the needle 154 can also pass through the septum 139 of the catheter component 102. In the fluid supply configuration, the - The needle component 104 can be removed and placed elsewhere to avoid interference with the operation of the catheter component 102. The septum 139 can define a seal within the chamber 134 that prevents fluid leakage from the needle orifice 136. In this way, the fluid can flow to the patient through the cannula 126 in a relatively unobstructed manner. The IV catheter system 100 can be inserted into position by placing the cannula tip 126 and the needle tip 154 ​​(not shown) near the fluid delivery site (e.g., a patient's vein) with the IV catheter system in the insertion configuration. The securing platform 122 can be placed on a patient's skin near the fluid delivery site and / or held in the healthcare professional's hand. The catheter component 102 and needle component 104 can then be advanced to push the cannula 126 onto the needle tip 154, and the cannula tip 126 penetrates the surrounding tissue to reach the fluid delivery site. If desired, catheter component 102 can be advanced by pushing a pusher element of catheter component 102. The pusher element is an element with a surface that is generally oriented proximally, or is textured, or otherwise... - The 27-way design provides sufficient friction coupling with the fingers of a healthcare professional to receive distally directed force from the finger. In this way, the healthcare professional can drive the catheter component 102 and needle component 104 together distally to position the cannula 126 at the fluid delivery location. The tab 190 can operate as a pulling element, as mentioned above, and can provide a plurality of pushing elements 194. In this way, a health professional can place a finger or thumb over the tab 190 during the insertion of the IV catheter system 100, and can exert pressure on the pushing elements to propel the catheter component 102 to move distally. Once the tip of cannula 126 has reached the fluid delivery location, the IV catheter system 100 can be moved into the fluid delivery configuration. This can be accomplished by withdrawing needle component 104 proximally from catheter component 102. This may cause needle 154 to be withdrawn proximally from cannula 126, and then from septum 139. Needle 154 can then be passed out of chamber 134 through needle port 136, thus completing the movement of the IV catheter system. 100 to the - 28 Fluid supply configuration. Fluid flow to the fluid supply location can now be carried out by propelling the fluid to flow through the extension tube 106, into the chamber 134 and through the cannula 126 to the fluid supply location. The IV catheter system 100 can be advantageously designed to facilitate one-handed insertion to the fluid delivery site. For example, during insertion, the healthcare professional can, with one hand, hold the catheter component 102 and the needle component 104 by grasping the securing platform 122 and the handle 152. The healthcare professional can then, with the same hand, apply light pressure to one or more of the pushing elements of the catheter component 102 (e.g., the rear edge 144 of the first wing 140 and / or the second wing 146) to propel the cannula tip 126 through the patient's skin and ultimately reach the fluid delivery site.If desired, one or more immobilization elements (not shown) can be used to hold the catheter component 102 and needle component 104 together until the healthcare professional applies a threshold force to move the IV catheter system 100 from the insertion configuration to the fluid delivery configuration. - 29 The IV catheter system 100 can be designed to provide visual confirmation of proper placement in a blood vessel. For example, the translucent component 138 of the catheter hub 120 can be translucent to provide visibility into the chamber 134. Thus, when the cannula tip 126 enters a vein, the resulting blood flow or backflow confirmation can be visible through the wall of the chamber 134 defined by the translucent component 138 as blood enters the chamber 134. The extension tubing junction 124 and the extension tube 106 can also optionally be translucent. In some modalities, the confirmation chamber can be extended through the extension tube 106 to the Y-adapter 110. The Y-adapter 110 can be connected to the fluid supply in a way that substantially reduces blood leakage. Additionally, a confirmation chamber receptacle (not shown) can indicate back-confirmation by receiving blood into a confirmation chamber. Furthermore, the IV catheter system 100 can be advantageously designed to facilitate one-handed transfer from the insertion configuration to the fluid delivery configuration. For example, the healthcare professional can, with one hand—which can be the same hand used to insert the system—transition from the insertion configuration to the fluid delivery configuration. - Insert IV catheter 100 into the fluid delivery location, grasp catheter component 102 and needle component 104, and remove needle component 104 proximally from catheter component 102. Catheter component 102 may remain substantially in place so that only needle component 104 moves significantly to move the IV catheter system 100 from the insertion configuration to the fluid delivery configuration. This can be accomplished by placing the fingers of the hand in contact with one or more pulling surfaces of the needle component 104 and one or more pushing elements of the catheter component 102, and then using those fingers to pull the needle component 104 proximally while pushing the catheter component 102 distally to hold it in place and prevent it from moving proximally with the needle component 104. For example, the pushing elements 194 of the tab 190, the rear edge 144 of the first flap 140, and / or the rear edge 144 of the second flap 146 can act as pushing elements, while the front edge 172 of the handle 152 can act as a pulling surface. The healthcare professional can place one or more fingers on the front edge 172 of the handle 152 and pull proximally while pushing with the thumb and / or one or more of the other fingers on the - 31 push elements 194 of the tab 190, the trailing edge 144 of the first fin 140 and / or the trailing edge 144 of the second fin 146. In this way, the catheter component 102 can be held in place with the cannula tip 126 at the fluid delivery location while the needle component 104 is withdrawn proximally from the catheter component 102 to unblock the fluid delivery path to the fluid delivery location. The relative positions of the pull and push elements can facilitate one-handed operation as described above. If desired, the coupling of the needle hub 150 with the catheter hub 120 can be such that the needle hub 150 is rotatable relative to the catheter hub 120 while the IV catheter system 100 is in the insertion configuration. In this way, the healthcare professional can manually rotate handle 152 to a more comfortable orientation for pulling the leading edge 172, before pulling the leading edge 172 and pushing on the pushing elements 194 of the tab 190, the trailing edge 144 of the first flap 140, and / or the trailing edge 144 of the second flap 146. For example, the healthcare professional may optionally be able to rotate handle 152 of the needle component 104 so that the second flap 146 rotates away from the middle portion 166 of the handle. This can provide - 32 more space for the healthcare professional's fingers to make contact with the front edge 172, the rear edge 144 of the first fin 140 and / or the rear edge 144 of the second fin 146. The septum 13 9 may have a low-friction or low-drag design configured to provide relatively little resistance to needle withdrawal 154 proximally through the septum, which occurs as the IV catheter system 100 moves from the insertion configuration to the fluid delivery configuration. The resistance to needle withdrawal 154 through the septum may be low enough that the healthcare professional can relatively easily move the IV catheter system 100 from the insertion configuration to the fluid delivery configuration with one hand. In some modalities, the withdrawal resistance may be, on average, less than approximately 50 gf. With reference to Figures 4A and 4B, these are perspective and side elevation views, respectively, showing catheter component 102 of the IV catheter system 100 in Figure 1, positioned beneath a dressing 400. Dressing 400 can be applied by a healthcare professional to cover catheter component 102 and / or to retain it in place. These dressings, in some - 33 instances, may consist of a fabric or paper product that does not have high puncture resistance. In addition, the presence of protruding items may interfere with the application and / or proper placement of the 400 dressing. Therefore, tab 190 can be advantageously formed from a material with a relatively low durometer value. It may be beneficial for tab 190 to be formed from a material with a lower durometer value than other portions of catheter component 102, such as the translucent component 138. In this way, the catheter hub 120 can have the necessary rigidity to help it perform its proper function, and tab 190 can flex instead of wearing down and / or perforating the adjacent inner surface of the dressing 400. Thus, in Figure 4B, the tab 190 is shown with the protrusions 192 in a deflected condition. Specifically, the protrusions 192 can be folded proximally or distally; a distal fold is shown in Figure 4B. The non-deflected positions 410 of the protrusions 192 are shown as dashed lines to illustrate how, in a non-deflected state, the protrusions 192 can protrude into the space occupied by the dressing 400, thereby endangering and damaging the dressing 400 and / or interfering with its application and / or placement. - 34 appropriate dressing 400. Additionally or alternatively, the protrusions 192 may be shaped to prevent perforation and / or wear of the dressing 400. For example, each of the protrusions 192 may have an outer surface 420 and adjacent surfaces 430 that are adjacent to and angled with respect to the outer surface 420. Furthermore, each of the protrusions 192 may have cycles 440 positioned to join each of the outer surfaces 420 with the surrounding adjacent surfaces 430. The cycles 440 may define relatively blunt edges that help protect the dressing 400. In this way, the geometry of the tab 190 can be selected to minimize the risk of perforation or abrasion of the dressing 400. The tab 190 represents only one of a wide variety of pushing elements that may be used in connection with the present description. The projections 192 are only examples; in other embodiments, a tab or other pushing element may have a variety of other features that facilitate grip without damaging or interfering with a dressing. These features may include, but are not limited to, differently configured projections, stops, recesses, holes, stepped surfaces, textured surfaces, etc. - 35 curved and similar protrusions. Any geometry that provides increased frictional engagement with the fingers can be used as a thrust element, or can be incorporated into a thrust element. In addition, a wide variety of push elements besides tabs can be used. For example, a circumferential projection can be used as a push element. For instance, with reference to the IV catheter system 100 from Figure 1 to Figure 4B, the catheter component 102 can be modified to omit the tab 190. The arms 196 can be extended to connect with each other, thereby encircling the catheter hub 120, or at least the portion of the catheter hub 120 not encircled by the securing platform 122. The resulting circumferential projection can be thickened, textured, and / or otherwise modified to increase frictional engagement of the projection with a user's fingers.Thus, the circumferential protrusion itself can act as a thrust element and can provide flexibility whereby a healthcare professional can place their finger in any of the various positions around the periphery of the 120 catheter hub to exert distal force on the catheter component. 102. - 36 A wide variety of thrust elements can be used, in addition to those specifically mentioned above. Several examples will be shown and described in relation to Figure 5 through Figure 9B, as follows. With reference to Figure 5, a perspective view shows needle 154 and catheter component 502 of an IV catheter system according to an alternative modality. In addition to catheter component 502, the IV catheter system may have components that generally correspond to those of IV catheter system 100 in Figures 1 to 4B, such as a needle component, extension tubing, clamp, luer lock adapter, confirmation chamber receptacle, and / or other components. Catheter component 502 may have a configuration similar to that of catheter component 102 in Figure 1; however, some parts may be modified, added, or omitted to provide alternative ergonomics and / or functionality.Parts of catheter component 502 now listed or described may assume to have configurations and operational characteristics that are identical or similar to those of their counterparts in catheter component 102 of Figures 1 to 4B. As shown in Figure 5, catheter component 502 can have a catheter hub 520, a - 37 securing platform 522, an extension tubing union 524, a cannula 126, and a tab 590. The securing platform 522 may have a first fin 540 and a second fin 546 that are shaped in a manner similar to the first fin 140 and the second fin 146 of the securing platform 122 of Figures 1 to 4B. The first fin 540 and the second fin 546 may be shaped as a single piece with each other and with the tab 590. The tab 590 may be connected to the securing platform 522 by a pair of arms 596 similar to the arms 196 of the catheter component 102 of Figures 1 to 4B. The tongue 590 can be shaped differently from the tongue 190 of Figures 1 to 4B. 15 Specifically, instead of projections, the tongue 590 can have a plurality of recesses 592. The inside of each recess can define a thrust element 594, which can be the proximally oriented surface inside each of the recesses 592. There can be external surfaces 20 598 between and around the recesses 592. The tab 590 can function in a manner generally similar to that of tab 190 in Figures 1 to 4B. Specifically, the push elements 594 can receive contact from a finger, for example, finger 300 in Figure 3. The contact can drive the component of - 38 catheter 502 to move proximally, or to remain in position while the corresponding needle component (not shown) is withdrawn distally. The tab 590 can be formed from an elastomer or other material of low durometer value and thus can provide a relatively smooth contact surface with the dressing 400. In addition, the absence of protrusions on the tab 590 can further help to avoid damage to the dressing 400. If desired, the edges between the outer surfaces 598 can be rounded to further help the tab 590 avoid abrading the dressing 400. With reference to Figures 6A and 6B, a perspective view and a side elevation view, respectively, show catheter component 602 of an IV catheter system according to an alternative modality. In addition to catheter component 602, the IV catheter system may have components that generally correspond to those of IV catheter system 100 in Figures 1 to 4B, such as a needle component, extension tubing, clamp, luer lock adapter, confirmation chamber receptacle, and / or other components. Catheter component 602 may have a configuration similar to that of catheter component 102 in Figure 1; however, some parts may be modified, added, or omitted to provide - 39 Alternative ergonomics and / or functionality. Parts of catheter component 602 are not listed or described and may be assumed to have configurations and operational characteristics that are identical or similar to those of their counterparts in catheter component 102 of Figures 1 to 4B. As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the catheter component 602 may have a catheter hub 620, a securing platform 622, an extension tubing union 624, a cannula (not shown), and a tab 690. The securing platform 622 may have a first fin 640 and a second fin 646 that are shaped similarly to the first fin 140 and second fin 146 of the securing platform 122 in Figures 1 to 4B. The first fin 640 and the second fin 646 can be formed as a single piece with each other and with the tongue 690. The tongue 690 can be connected to the securing platform 622 by a pair of arms 696 similar to the arms 196 of the catheter component 102 of Figures 1 to 4B and can optionally be formed as a single piece with the arms 696 of the securing platform 622. Tab 690 may be positioned differently from tab 190 in Figures 1 to 4B and tab 590 in Figure 5. Specifically, although the - Tab 190 and tab 590 can be positioned generally equidistant from the distal and proximal ends of catheter hub 120 and catheter hub 520, respectively. Tab 690 in Figures 6A and 6B can be positioned close to the distal end of catheter hub 620. In this way, tab 690 can provide an alternative grip and / or fit distribution for users with different anatomical features (e.g., longer fingers), compared to tab 190 and tab 590. Furthermore, the tab 690 may be shaped differently from the tab 190 of Figures 1 to 4B and the tab 590 of Figure 5. Specifically, the tab 690 may have a plurality of projections 692 that are slightly thinner and shallower than the projections 192 of tab 190. The projections 692 may have proximally oriented surfaces that define pushing elements 694 that receive contact from the fingers or thumb of the healthcare professional. Each of the projections 692 may have an outer surface 698 that may be attached to the surrounding surfaces by means of loops. In addition, the tab 690 may have an underlying surface 670 that is at an angle not parallel to a cannula axis 128 of the catheter component 602. The underlying surface 670 may be inclined - 41 so that the distal end of the underlying surface 670 is additionally positioned from the cannula axis 128 compared to the proximal end of the underlying surface 670. The orientation of the underlying surface 5 670 is most clearly visible in Figure 6B. The tab 690 can function in a manner generally similar to that of tabs 190 and 590. Specifically, the push elements 694 can be contacted by a finger, such as finger 300 in Figure 3. This contact can drive the catheter component 602 to move proximally or to remain in position while the corresponding needle component (not shown) is withdrawn distally. The tab 690 can be made of an elastomer or another material with a low durometer value, as in the previous modalities. With reference now to Figures 7A and 7B, a perspective view and a side elevation view, respectively, show catheter component 702 of an IV catheter system according to an alternative modality. In addition to catheter component 702, the IV catheter system may have components that generally correspond to those of IV catheter system 100 in Figures 1 to 4B, such as the needle component, an extension tube, a clamp, and an adapter. - 42 Luer lock, a confirmation chamber receptacle, and / or other components. Catheter component 702 may have a configuration similar to that of catheter component 102 in Figure 1; however, some parts may be modified, added, or omitted to provide alternative ergonomics and / or functionality. Parts of catheter component 702 that are not numbered or described may be assumed to have configurations and operational characteristics that are identical or similar to those of their counterparts in catheter component 102 in Figures 1 to 4B. As shown in Figures 7A and 7B, the catheter component 702 may have a catheter hub 720, a securing platform 722, an extension tubing union 724, a cannula (not shown), and a tab 790. The securing platform 722 may have a first fin 740 and a second fin 746 shaped similarly to the first fin 140 and second fin 146 of the securing platform 122 in Figures 1 to 4B. The first fin 740 and the second fin 746 may be shaped as a single piece relative to each other. However, the tab 790 may be shaped separately from the securing platform 722. In particular, the catheter hub 720 may have a translucent component 738 that defines the - 43 most or all of the outer surface of the catheter hub 720. The tab 790 can be secured to the translucent component 738 by chemical bonding, adhesive bonding, mechanical fastening and / or similar means. The tab 790 can be positioned similarly to the tab 690 in Figures 6A and 6B, toward the distal end of the catheter hub 720. The tab 790 can also have a configuration similar to that of the tab 690, with a plurality of projections 792 defining thrust elements 794 and outer surfaces 798. The tab 790 can also have an underlying surface 770 that is angled, similarly to the underlying surface 670 in Figures 6A and 6B, to facilitate the healthcare professional's ability to drive the catheter component 702 distally, or to remain stationary when the corresponding needle hub (not shown) is distally withdrawn. In addition to the tab 790, a pad 780 can also be secured to the translucent component 738 near the proximal end of the catheter hub 720. The pad 780 can have a shape generally similar to that of the tab 790 and thus can have a plurality of projections 782 that provide thrust elements 784 and outer surfaces 788. The pad - 44 780 may also have an underlying surface 760 that is generally in the same plane as the surrounding portions of the translucent component 738. The pad 780 may provide supplementary gripping surfaces, enabling the healthcare professional to easily grasp the catheter component 702 with multiple fingers or to exercise their preference as to where to grasp the catheter component 702 (e.g., whether grasping the catheter component 702 towards the proximal or distal end of the catheter hub 720). The tab 790 and / or the pad 780 can function in a manner generally similar to that of tab 190, tab 590, and tab 690. Specifically, the push elements 794 and / or push elements 784 can be contacted by a finger, such as finger 300 in Figure 3. This contact can drive the catheter component 702 to move proximally or to remain in position while the corresponding needle component (not shown) is withdrawn distally. The tab 790 and / or the pad 780 can be made of an elastomer or other material with a low durometer value, as in the previous modalities. With reference to figure 8, a perspective view shows catheter component 802 of a - 45 IV catheter system according to an alternative modality. In addition to catheter component 802, the IV catheter system may have components that generally correspond to those of IV catheter system 100 in Figures 1 to 4B, such as a needle component, extension tubing, clamp, luer lock adapter, confirmation chamber receptacle, and / or other components. Catheter component 802 may have a configuration similar to that of catheter component 102 in Figure 1; however, some parts may be modified, added, or omitted to provide alternative ergonomics or functionality. Parts of catheter component 802 that are not numbered or described may be assumed to have configurations and operational characteristics that are identical or similar to those of their counterparts in catheter component 102 in Figures 1 to 4B. As shown in Figure 8, the catheter component 702 may have a catheter hub 820, a securing platform 822, an extension tubing union 824, a cannula (not shown), and a tab 890. The securing platform 822 may have a first fin 840 and a second fin 846 that are shaped similarly to the first fin 140 and the second fin 146 of the securing platform 122 of the - 46 Figures 1 to 4B. The first flap 840 and the second flap 846 may be formed as a single piece with respect to each other. However, like the tab 790 of Figures 7A and 7B, the tab 890 may be formed separately from the securing platform 822. In particular, the catheter hub 820 may have a translucent component 838 that defines most or all of the outer surface of the catheter hub 820. The tab 890 may be secured to the translucent component 838 by chemical bonding, adhesive bonding, mechanical fastening, and / or similar means. The tab 890 may be positioned similarly to the tab 690 of Figures 6A and 6B, and the tab 790 of Figures 7A and 7B, toward the distal end of the catheter hub 820. The tab 890 may also have a configuration similar to that of the tab 790, with a plurality of projections 892 defining thrust elements 894 and outer surfaces 898. The tab 890 may also have an underlying surface 870 that is angled differently from underlying surface 670 and underlying surface 770. The underlying surface 870 may be angled such that the distal end of the underlying surface 870 is closer to the cannula axis 128 compared to the proximal end of the - 47 underlying surface 870. In this way, the underlying surface 870 can be substantially in the same plane as the surrounding portions of the translucent component 838. Consequently, the underlying surface may not act as a thrust element but can provide the catheter component 802 with a relatively low profile that avoids interference with, or damage to, the dressing 400. In addition to the tab 890, a pad 780 can also be secured to the translucent component 738 near the proximal end of the catheter hub 720. The pad 780 can have the same configuration and placement as the catheter component 702 in Figures 7A and 7B. The presence of the pad 780 can help compensate for the contact shape of the tab 890 by providing additional thrust elements, as described in relation to Figures 7A and 7B. The tab 790 and / or the pad 780 can function in a generally similar manner to the tab 190, tab 590, tab 690, tab 790, and pad 780. Specifically, the push elements 894 and / or the push elements 784 can be contacted by a finger, such as finger 300 in Figure 3. This contact can drive the catheter component 602 to move proximally or to - 48 remain in position while the corresponding needle component (not shown) is withdrawn distally. The 890 tab and / or the 780 pad may be made of an elastomer or other material with a low durometer value, as in the previous modalities. With reference to Figures 9A and 9B, a perspective view and a side elevation view, respectively, show catheter component 902 of an IV catheter system according to an alternative modality. In addition to catheter component 902, the IV catheter system may have components that generally correspond to those of IV catheter system 100 in Figures 1 to 4B, such as the needle component, an extension tube, a clamp, a luer lock adapter, a confirmation chamber receptacle, and / or other components. Catheter component 902 may have a configuration similar to that of catheter component 102 in Figure 1; however, some parts may be modified, added, or omitted to provide alternative ergonomics and / or functionality.Parts of catheter component 902 that are not numbered or described may be assumed to have configurations and operational characteristics that are identical or similar to those of their counterparts in catheter component 102 of Figures 1 to 4B. - 49 As shown in Figures 9A and 9B, the catheter component 902 may have a catheter hub 920, a securing platform 922, an extension tubing union 924, a cannula (not shown), and a tab 990. The securing platform 922 may have a first fin 940 and a second fin 946 that are shaped similarly to the first fin 140 and the second fin 146 of the securing platform 122 in Figures 1 to 4B. The first fin 940 and the second fin 946 may be shaped as a single piece relative to each other. The tab 990 can optionally be formed separately from the securing platform 922. The catheter hub 920 can have an opaque component 936 that defines most of the outer surface of the catheter hub 920 and a translucent component 938 that provides a window within the chamber 934 defined within the catheter hub 920, enabling the healthcare professional to view the interior of the chamber 934. The tab 990 can be formed as a single piece with the opaque component 936. In this way, the tab 990 and the opaque component 936 can both be formed from a material with a low durometer value, such as an elastomer. If desired, the securing platform 922 can be formed as a single piece with the tab 990 and the opaque component 936. The tab 990 may be positioned similarly to tabs 690, 790, and 890 in Figures 6A to 8, toward the distal end of the catheter hub 920. However, tab 990 may also have a very simple shape, lacking the distinct protrusions of the other modalities. Instead, tab 990 may rise from the catheter hub 920 at a relatively shallow angle to define a unique outer surface 998. Tab 990 may define a single, substantial-sized thrust element 994. In this way, tab 990 may facilitate the healthcare professional's ability to thrust the catheter component 702 to move distally or to remain stationary when the corresponding needle hub (not shown) is withdrawn distally. The relatively simple design of the 990 tab may help prevent wear against the 400 dressing.Furthermore, as previously mentioned, tab 990 can be made of a material with a low durometer value, such as an elastomer. This allows tab 990 to fold under dressing 400, similar to tab 190 in Figure 4B. The 990 tongue can function in a way - 51 generally similar to that of tab 190, tab 590, tab 690, tab 790, pad 780, and tab 890. Specifically, the push element 994 can be contacted by a finger, such as finger 300 in Figure 3. The contact can drive the catheter component 902 to move proximally or to remain in position while the corresponding needle component (not shown) is withdrawn distally. With reference to Figure 10, a flowchart shows a method for preparing an IV catheter system to deliver fluid to a patient, according to a specific modality. The method in Figure 10 can be performed with any of the IV catheter systems described in Figures 1 through 9B or with other IV catheter system modalities not specifically shown or described herein. For illustrative purposes, the method will be described in relation to the IV catheter system 100 in Figure 1. Furthermore, the method in Figure 10 is illustrative only; other methods may be used with any of the IV catheter system modalities included within the scope of this description. The method may begin 1010 with a step 1020 in which the IV catheter system 100 is prepared. This preparation may include various connecting components (such as the catheter component 102, the - 52 needle component 104, extension tube 106, clamp 108 and / or Y-adapter 110 of Figure 1, as an example) together. In addition, this may include preparing any adhesive or dressing, such as dressing 400 of Figures 4A and 4B, required to secure catheter component 102 to the patient. In step 1030, the IV catheter system 100 can be grasped. This can be done with both hands or, optionally, with one hand. This may involve placing the fingers of the hand in contact with one or more pulling surfaces of the needle component 104 and one or more pushing elements of the catheter component 102, as described above. Notably, the surfaces that serve as pulling surfaces and pushing elements may vary, based on the specific modality used. Furthermore, catheter insertion may primarily involve pushing; consequently, the healthcare professional may choose not to make contact with the pulling surfaces at this step, but to make contact with them when the IV catheter system 100 is to be moved into the fluid delivery configuration. In stage 1040, the IV catheter system 100 can be manipulated to insert the cannula 126 into the patient. This can be performed with both hands, or optionally with one hand. The insertion can - 53 Continue until the tip of cannula 126 has reached the fluid delivery location. Insertion can be accomplished by pushing on the pushing elements and / or other surfaces of the catheter component 102 and / or the water component 104. The healthcare professional can confirm proper insertion of cannula 126 by observing blood flow into chamber 134, through the wall provided by the translucent component 138. In step 1050, the IV catheter system 100 can be moved from the insertion configuration to the fluid delivery configuration. If the healthcare professional has not yet made contact with one or more of the pulling surfaces of the needle component 104, they can do so now using one or more fingers. Optionally, the same hand used to insert the IV catheter system 100 can be used exclusively (i.e., without assistance from the other hand) to move the IV catheter system 100 to the fluid delivery configuration. The healthcare professional can pull one or more of the pulling surfaces proximally while pushing on one or more of the pushing elements to hold the catheter component 102 in place. In this way, the catheter component 102 can be held in place with the cannula tip 126 in the fluid delivery location while - 54 The needle component 104 is removed proximally from the catheter component 102 to unblock the fluid delivery path to the fluid delivery location. This can optionally be performed with one hand. This allows the other hand to be used for other tasks during the insertion and / or movement of the IV 100 catheter system into the fluid delivery configuration. For example, the healthcare professional can use the other hand to stabilize the patient's arm (or other body part where the fluid delivery site is located), prepare other components for connection to the IV 100 catheter system, prepare necessary blood test materials, and / or similar tasks. The method can then end 1090. With the IV catheter system 100 in fluid delivery configuration, the fluid source can then be connected to catheter component 102 to deliver fluid to the patient. In some configurations, an IV catheter system, such as the IV catheter systems in any of Figures 1 through 9B, may include a needle safety mechanism. The needle safety mechanism may include any safety mechanism configured to secure a sharp distal tip of a needle. - 55 penetrating, such as the 154 needle when the needle is removed from a catheter of a particular catheter device, avoiding accidental needle sticks. The safety mechanism can be coupled to the IV catheter system in many different ways. In some embodiments, the safety mechanism may include an internal immobilizer in which the safety mechanism is coupled to an internal surface of a catheter component. The coupling may include threading, tightening, pressing, connecting, joining, clamping, snapping, hooking, or any other suitable means of coupling. Non-limiting examples of safety mechanisms that include an internal immobilizer are provided in: U.S. Patent No. 8,496,623, entitled BI-DIRECTIONAL CANNULA FEATURE CAPTURE MECHANISM, filed March 2, 2009; U.S. Patent No. 9,399,120, entitled BI-DIRECTIONAL CANNULA FEATURE CAPTURE MECHANISM, filed July 11, 2013; and U.S. Patent Application No.62 / 314,362, entitled CANNULA CAPTURE MECHANISM, filed on March 28, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some embodiments, the safety mechanism may include a snap positioned within the catheter component, a non-limiting example of which is provided in US Patent No. 6,117,108 entitled SPRING CLIP SAFETY IV. - 56 CATHETER, submitted on June 12, 1998, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some embodiments, the safety mechanism may include an external immobilizer in which the safety mechanism is coupled to an external surface of the catheter component. In some embodiments, the safety mechanism may be coupled to an external surface of the catheter component and an internal and / or external surface of a needle hub. The coupling may include threading, coupling, snap coupling, connection, union, clamping, snap, hook, or any other suitable means of coupling. Non-limiting examples of safety mechanisms that include an external immobilizer are provided in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 295,953, entitled PORTED IV CATHETER HAVING EXTERNAL NEEDLE SHIELD AND INTERNAL BLOOD CONTROL SEPTUM, filed June 4, 2014, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some embodiments, the safety mechanism may include a V-clasp or similar clasp.A non-limiting example of a V-clasp is provided in US Patent Application No. 14 / 295,953, entitled PORTED IV CATHETER HAVING EXTERNAL NEEDLE SHIELD AND INTERNAL BLOOD CONTROL SEPTUM, filed June 4, 2014, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The V-clasp may - 57 selectively retain a portion of the catheter adapter. In some designs, a counter-retractable mechanical connection is provided between the safety mechanism and at least one other component of the IV catheter system. In some instances, the mechanical connection is counter-retracted by securing the distal tip of the needle within the safety mechanism. In some designs, a surface of the safety mechanism selectively engages with one or more of the following: the catheter component, a blood control valve, an extension tube, and one or more handles. In some models, the safety mechanism may include a safety cylinder, which may be spring-loaded. For example, the safety cylinder may be spring-loaded, as in the BDMRInsyte*® AutoguardMRBC shielded protective IV catheter. In some models, the safety mechanism may be passively and / or actively activated. In some models, the safety mechanism may be configured to interact with a needle element, such as a splint, notch, or corrugated protrusion over the needle. In some models, the safety mechanism may include an arm or lever that can be actuated to capture the distal tip within the safety mechanism and prevent the tip from emerging before safe disposal. - 59 handle overlaps any portion of the safety mechanism. The present invention can be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its five essential structures, methods, or other features as fully described herein and claimed below. The described embodiments should be considered in all respects as illustrative only and not as limiting. The scope of the invention is therefore defined by the appended claims, rather than by the preceding description. All changes that fall within the meaning and scope of equivalence of the claims shall be deemed to be included within their scope. It is hereby stated that, as of this date, the best method known to the applicant for putting the aforementioned invention into practice is the one that is clear from the present description of the invention.

Claims

1. A catheter system, characterized in that it comprises: a catheter component, comprising: a catheter hub, comprising a distal end, a proximal end, and a chamber disposed between the distal end and the proximal end; a cannula secured to the distal end of the catheter hub; and a plurality of projections coupled to the catheter hub and extending away from an axis of the cannula; a needle extending through the cannula; and a needle safety mechanism selectively coupled to the catheter component, wherein the catheter system is configured such that in response to insertion of the needle into a vein, backflow of blood flows into the needle and between an outer surface of the needle and an inner surface of the catheter hub.

2. The catheter system according to claim 1, characterized in that the catheter hub comprises a translucent component, wherein the translucent component is disposed distal to the plurality of projections, wherein the translucent component is configured to facilitate visibility of blood backflow between the outer surface of the needle and the inner surface of the catheter hub.

3. The catheter system according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of projections are generally parallel to each other.

4. The catheter system according to claim 3, characterized in that the plurality of projections comprises a first projection, a second projection, and a third projection, wherein the first projection is distal to the second projection, wherein the second projection is distal to the third projection, wherein a height of the first projection is greater than a height of the second projection and a height of the third projection.

5. The catheter system according to claim 4, characterized in that each of the plurality of projections are approximately uniformly spaced.

6. The catheter system according to claim 1, characterized in that the needle safety mechanism comprises an internal immobilizer, wherein the internal immobilizer is coupled with an internal surface of the catheter component.

7. The catheter system according to claim 1, characterized in that the needle safety mechanism comprises a snap disposed within the catheter component.

8. A catheter system, characterized in that it comprises: a catheter component, comprising: a catheter hub, comprising a distal end, a proximal end, and a chamber disposed between the distal end and the proximal end; a cannula secured to the distal end of the catheter hub; and a plurality of projections coupled to the catheter hub and extending away from a cannula axis; and a needle extending through the cannula.

9. The catheter system according to claim 8, characterized in that it further comprises a needle safety mechanism selectively coupled to the catheter component, wherein the catheter system is configured such that in response to insertion of the needle into a vein, backflow of blood flows into the needle and between an outer surface of the needle and an inner surface of the catheter hub.

10. The catheter system according to claim 9, characterized in that the catheter hub comprises a translucent component, wherein the translucent component is disposed distal to the plurality of projections, wherein the translucent component is configured to facilitate visibility of blood backflow between the outer surface of the needle and the inner surface of the catheter hub.

11. The catheter system according to claim 9, characterized in that the plurality of projections are generally parallel to each other.

12. The catheter system according to claim 8, characterized in that the plurality of projections comprises a first projection, a second projection, and a third projection, wherein the first projection is distal to the second projection, wherein the second projection is distal to the third projection, wherein a height of the first projection is greater than a height of the second projection and a height of the third projection.

13. The catheter system according to claim 8, characterized in that each of the plurality of projections are approximately uniformly spaced.

14. The catheter system according to claim 9, characterized in that the needle safety mechanism comprises an internal immobilizer, wherein the internal immobilizer is coupled to an internal surface of the catheter component.

15. The catheter system according to claim 9, characterized in that the needle safety mechanism comprises a snap disposed within the catheter component.

16. A catheter system, characterized in that it comprises: a catheter component, comprising: a catheter hub, comprising a distal end, a proximal end, and a chamber disposed between the distal and proximal ends; a cannula secured to the distal end of the catheter hub; and a tab coupled to an upper portion of the catheter hub and formed of a thermoplastic elastomeric material; a needle extending through the cannula; and a needle safety mechanism selectively coupled to the catheter component, wherein the catheter system is configured such that in response to insertion of the needle into a vein, backflow of blood flows into the needle and between an outer surface of the needle and an inner surface of the catheter hub.

17. The catheter system according to claim 16, characterized in that the tab comprises a plurality of recesses aligned with the axis of the cannula, wherein a distal end of the tab is inclined such that the distal end of the tab is displaced further beyond the axis of the cannula than a proximal end of the tab.

18. The catheter system according to claim 16, characterized in that a distal end of the tab is inclined such that the distal end of the tab is displaced further beyond the axis of the cannula than a proximal end of the tab.

19. The catheter system according to claim 18, characterized in that the tongue comprises a plurality of projections.

20. The catheter system according to claim 18, characterized in that the catheter component further comprises a pad disposed on the top of the catheter hub and proximal to the tongue, wherein the pad is composed of an elastomer, wherein the pad comprises a plurality of projections.

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