Winged Collection Sets
Winged blood collection sets or “butterfly” collection sets can facilitate blood specimen collections when larger quantities of blood are needed, when the patient’s veins are fragile or difficult to access using a straight needle, and with patients who have trouble remaining still or immobile during blood specimen collection. Typically available with shorter and smaller needles, winged collection sets can also be more comfortable for patients.
The “wings” refer to flexible flat plastic pieces attached to either side of the needle base. They attach to the needle at a slight angle to help avoid blood vessel damage or lumen occlusion. Since the needles are not stabilized by a syringe or tube holder, the phlebotomist can pinch the wings together to use as a handle to control the needle placement. After insertion, the wings can then be spread open and taped to the skin to comfortably maintain the needle position during the blood draw.
Find winged blood collection sets with varying attached tubing lengths, needle gauges and lengths, and with Luer and non-Luer connection options.