A filter needle must be used when withdrawing medication from a glass ampule to prevent microscopic glass particles from being drawn into the syringe. Once the medication has been withdrawn, the filter needle must be removed and replaced with the appropriate administration needle or transfer device before the medication is administered.
Proper Procedure
- Inspect the ampule
- Verify the medication, concentration, expiration date, and ensure the ampule is intact.
- Tap or swirl the top of the ampule so any medication in the neck flows into the body of the ampule.
- Open the ampule
- Clean the neck if required by your facility’s policy.
- Wrap the neck with gauze or an ampule breaker.
- Snap the ampule away from your body at the scored neck.
- Attach the blunt filter needle
- Use a 5-micron, blunt filter needle (commonly 18G or 19G, depending on the manufacturer).
- Attach it securely to the syringe.
- Withdraw the medication
- Insert the filter needle into the ampule without touching the broken rim.
- Tilt the ampule as needed to keep the needle tip submerged.
- Do not inject air into the ampule, as would typically be done with a vial.
- Withdraw the required volume slowly to minimize air bubbles.
- Replace the filter needle
- Remove the filter needle using safe sharps handling techniques.
- Dispose of it in an approved sharps container.
- Attach the appropriate needle or administration device (e.g., IM, IV, SC needle or needleless transfer device).
- Administer the medication
- Expel any air if appropriate.
- Administer according to the medication’s instructions for use and your facility’s policy.
Watch: How to Use a Blunt Filter Needle
Source: BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company). Product names are trademarks of their respective owners.
This article is for educational purposes and does not replace clinical judgment, medical direction, applicable scope-of-practice requirements or an organization’s emergency protocols.
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