From the Guidelines
A filter needle is a specialized medical device used to draw up medications from glass ampules or vials to prevent glass particles or other debris from being injected into patients. It consists of a standard hypodermic needle with a built-in 5-micron filter that traps particulate matter while allowing the medication to pass through. When using a filter needle, healthcare providers first draw up the medication through the filter needle, then replace it with a regular needle for administration to the patient. This two-step process is particularly important when accessing medications in glass ampules, which often create microscopic glass fragments when broken open. Common examples include BD and Monoject filter needles, typically 18-gauge or larger to accommodate the filter. Filter needles should not be used for injection into patients, only for medication withdrawal. Using filter needles is standard practice in healthcare settings to prevent complications like phlebitis, emboli, or granuloma formation that could occur if particulate matter were inadvertently injected into the bloodstream or tissues, as supported by guidelines for preventing intravascular catheter-related infections 1. Some studies have discussed the use of in-line filters in preventing catheter-related bloodstream infections, but no strong recommendation can be made in favor of using them for this purpose 1. However, the use of filter needles for drawing up medications is a separate consideration and is recommended for preventing particulate matter from entering the patient's bloodstream. Key points to consider when using filter needles include:
- Using a filter needle to draw up medications from glass ampules or vials
- Replacing the filter needle with a regular needle for administration to the patient
- Selecting a filter needle with a suitable gauge size, such as 18-gauge or larger
- Avoiding the use of filter needles for injection into patients
- Following proper techniques for medication withdrawal and administration to minimize the risk of complications.
From the Research
Definition of a Filter Needle
- A filter needle is a type of needle used to reduce particle contamination when obtaining medication from glass ampules prior to administration 2.
- The use of a filter needle is beneficial in minimizing the risk of particle contamination, which can pose serious hazards to patients.
Purpose of a Filter Needle
- The primary purpose of a filter needle is to filter out particles and contaminants from medications, ensuring the safety and efficacy of the medication administered to patients 2.
- Filter needles are particularly useful when working with glass ampules, which can be prone to particle contamination.
Construction of a Unit-Specific Filter Needle Protocol
- The construction of a unit-specific filter needle protocol is essential in promoting the continued change in nursing practice regarding patient safety 2.
- This protocol aims to educate nursing staff about the potential risks and benefits of using filter needles when obtaining medication from glass ampules.