Sprøyten

Sprøyten, or the syringe, is a medical device used to inject liquids into the body, withdraw fluids, or mix small volumes for laboratory work. It typically consists of a cylindrical barrel with measurement marks, a plunger that creates suction or push, and a tip that can accept a needle or a compatible connector. The device is designed to form an airtight seal so fluids can be drawn up or expelled accurately. Modern syringes are usually disposable and made of plastic; earlier versions were glass with metal plungers. Needles are typically stainless steel and come in various gauges and lengths to suit different injections or withdrawals. Some syringes are designed without needles or use detachable adapters.

Syringe sizes vary widely. Tuberculin syringes commonly hold 1 mL and are used for precise subcutaneous injections, while insulin syringes range from about 0.3 mL to 1 mL with fine needles. Larger syringes, from about 3 mL to 20 mL or more, are used for drawing blood, administering intravenous fluids, or injecting medications. The needle and syringe can be configured for intramuscular, subcutaneous, intravenous, or other routes, with needle length and gauge chosen accordingly. Safety features, such as retractable needles or needle guards, are increasingly common to reduce exposure to sharps.

History and design notes: the syringe emerged in the mid-19th century through the work of inventors in France and Britain, with glass syringes and metal needles predominating in early use. The term syringe derives from the Greek word syrinx, meaning a tube or pipe. In modern healthcare, syringes are typically used once and disposed of in sharps containers to prevent infection and injury, while some specialized applications use prefilled or auto-disabled devices to promote safety.

Disposal, safety, and environmental considerations remain important, as improper use or disposal of syringes can pose health risks and contribute to plastic waste.