Directions for Use of a Winged Collection Set

Winged blood collection sets are an improvement over the needle and syringe method. They have built-in safety features not provided by the vacuum-tube hypodermic-needle collection systems used commonly, while providing greater precision in the drawing of blood.

Winged Collection Set

• The winged blood collection set, or butterfly set, named for the shape of the plastic grips, consists of a variable size stainless steel needle attached to a 5- to 12-inch length of plastic tubing. A 23-gauge needle is the standard size.

Use Directions

• Remove the cap from the tube end and attach a syringe. After collection, hold the set by the wing-shaped extension handles. Activate the safety with index finger pressure on the stop and by pulling with the thumb and middle finger on the tubing behind the safety device. An audible click indicates the needle is retracted and locked into the safety.

Safety

• The collection set can be operated with one of two hands. A plastic or stainless steel protective shield snaps into place over the needle during withdrawal from the skin, greatly minimizing the risk of accidental needle puncture to the patient and phlebotomist.