Filter needle when drawing from vials or not?

We do have filter needles available for drawing from ampules.

We didn't have them for years, and I was used to using them from a previous job. For the past year we have had them available, and it's so hard to get used to using them again. I've never had a problem with glass......our needles are 27ga, and I don't think glass shards could get inside. I think it's another of those JCAH things.......

I remember when I first saw those filter needles/straws on the units where I worked. I had only vaguely heard of them before and it just never occured to me before then that there might be a possibility of a non-visible glass shard being injected into my patient! I used them rather faithfully after that. I will admit not using them when we were not supplied with them (not just out in the med room but out in the whole unit).

If it's there use it. If it's not you can't.

Noney

we don't have them available. Makes me INSANELY nervous. I wouldn't want to have glass injected into me.

we actually just had this come up.we did not regularly use them,but are currently working to get them supplied in all med tooms and make it our policy to use them.

We have filter needles at work. You can be fired for not using them.

I think the vials should be re-designed, not the needles.

We don't have them where I work...I wish we did though....it is how I was taught too.

Typically, I use filter needles for all glass vials and "double rubber" medications (like solu-medrol)...I have to admits that for regular rubber stoppers, I don't usually use filter needles.

Only use them for the ampules. I'm sure there are other instances where I'd need to.

I have NEVER heard of filter needles until reading this thread.....

Is there any one else in Australia who has these available at their place of employment?

For hospitals that do not use filter needs for ampule draws, they need to understand what evidenced based practice is and do a little research.