In medicine, a needleless connector connects to the end of vascular catheters and enable catheter access for infusion and aspiration.[1] Needleless connectors (also known as NC's) were developed to reduce needlestick injuries, which occurs when the skin is accidentally punctured by a used needle.[2] Needlestick injuries can be very serious and potentially expose a healthcare professional to bloodborne infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.[3][4]
The needless connector should provide safe access to the catheter without the use of needles and enable the following:[citation needed]
Before utilizing a needleless connector, it is important to properly disinfect the device to help prevent central line[5]–associated bloodstream infection.[6]
Various designs for the needless connector and its components have been developed over the years. This includes a patent developed by Karl Leinsing for "needleless connector" which relates generally to connectors of the type used in the handling and administration of parenteral fluids, and more particularly, to a valve mechanism incorporated within such connector for~~enabling a fluid interconnection to be made therewith without the use of a sharp cannula.[7]