indicated by numbers 14 to 27. The higher the gauge (size) number, the smaller the
diameter of the needle. A small gauge is needed for viscous medications; a large
gauge is needed for "thin" or watery medications.
b. The syringe is the instrument used for injecting liquids. It consists of a barrel,
plunger, and needle adapter that attaches to the needle (see figure 1-4). The plunger
pushes the medication through the barrel into the needle. The barrel is marked in cubic
centimeters/ milliliters (cc/ml). Syringes come in different sizes
Figure 1-1. Disposable needle, syringe, and container.
Figure 1-2. Parts of a needle.
MD0552
1-7