sprøjtes

A syringe, in Danish sprøjter (plural sprøjter), is a sterile medical device used to inject liquids into the body, withdraw fluids, or irrigate a wound. It typically consists of a cylindrical barrel, a plunger that creates pressure or suction, and a tip that can hold or attach a needle. Modern syringes are usually single-use and come pre-sterilized in sealed packaging.

Most syringes are made of medical-grade plastics, with stainless steel needles. The barrel is marked with volume measurements, allowing precise dosing. Needle gauges range from thin to thick, and the capacity of syringes varies from small 0.3 mL or 0.5 mL insulin syringes to larger 1 mL, 3 mL, 5 mL, or 10 mL units, and up to 50 mL for certain applications. Some syringes use a Luer-lock or Luer-slip fitting to secure the needle.

Common types include hypodermic syringes for injections, insulin syringes designed for diabetes care, tuberculin or small-volume syringes for precise dosing, and prefilled or safety syringes that reduce needlestick risk. Safety features may include needle guards or retractable needles to minimize accidental injuries.

Uses encompass administration of vaccines and medications via intramuscular, subcutaneous, or intravenous routes, drawing blood or other fluids for testing, and irrigation of wounds or body cavities. Proper technique, sterile handling, and appropriate disposal are essential.

Regulatory oversight varies by country but typically falls under medical devices regulation. Syringes are designed for single use and must be disposed of in designated sharps containers to prevent needlestick injuries and biohazard exposure. The invention and refinement of syringes date to the 17th and 18th centuries, with modern disposable designs becoming widespread in the mid-20th century.