University of Illinois a leader in the use of needlefree systems

The University of Illinois at Chicago is a world leader in the conversion from needle injection systems to needleless jet injection. A jet injector is powered by carbon dioxide or a spring which forces medication under the skin in a fraction of a second without causing pain. Jet injectors disperse medications more broadly under the skin than conventional injectors, thus making drug absorption more rapid. Additionally they can be used for intramuscular injections. The University has instituted a program for the conversion of the administration of medication from needled systems to needleless jet injection systems. Jet syringes are used routinely before IV insertion throughout the Hospital and for intramuscular and subcutaneous injection of a variety of medications in pilot projects throughout the Institution. Plans have been approved to replace needle injection with jet injection as the preferred method of administration throughout the Hospital.

Elemer K. Zsigmond MD, DSc, FCP, Professor Emeritus of Anesthesiology is Medical Director of the Needle Free Project at the University. As Principle Investigator of a study published in the International Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, he concluded that jet injection of anesthetic lidocaine was nearly painless and practical. It substantially reduced the anxiety associated with the use of needles. Importantly, it can be expanded to uses beyond lidocaine injection.

Use of jet syringes can reduce needlestick injuries to health care workers. Jet syringe use could reduce waste costs for hospitals, since it requires no special disposal. The University of Illinois serves as a model institution for hospitals wishing to move toward a needle-free environment. Use of jet syringes promotes compliance with the OSHA regulations concerning needle safety and with the JCAHO pain standards. This web site offers access to many of the important studies on jet injection as well as links to world organizations promoting its use.

Rev.12/20/04 ©