How to Read Syringes

Introduction

• Presented by Sarah, a registered nurse.
• Focus on five basic syringes used in nursing.
• Importance of selecting the correct syringe for accurate medication dosage.

Syringe Selection

• Example: For 0.5mL of morphine, use a 3cc syringe.
• Example: For 0.25mL of medication, use a 1mL syringe.

Basic Parts of a Syringe

• Adapter Part: Where the needle is attached.
  • Used for IM injections or attached to IVs.
• Barrel: Contains a scale for measuring medication.
• Plunger: Used to draw up medication.
  • Align the top part of plunger with the scale.

Types of Syringes and Reading Measurements

10mL (10cc) Syringe

• Capacity: 10mL or 10cc.
• Scale:
  • 0.5mL increments.
  • Measurement example: Yellow line at 4.5mL.

5mL Syringe

• Scale:
  • 0.2mL increments between main measurements.
  • Measurement example: Yellow line at 2.2mL.

3mL Syringe

• Scale:
  • 0.1mL increments.
  • Ideal for smaller doses, e.g., 0.5mL.
  • Measurement example: Yellow line at 0.7mL.

1mL Syringe

• Scale:
  • 0.01mL increments.
  • Suitable for very precise small doses, e.g., 0.25mL.
  • Measurement example: Yellow line at 0.25mL.

Insulin Syringe

• Capacity: 100 units.
• Scale:
  • 2-unit increments.
  • Insulin measured in units, not mL.
  • Measurement example: Yellow line at 72 units.

Conclusion

• Understanding how to read different syringes is crucial for accurate medication administration.
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