Abstract: In general, the invention relates to an improved assembly for insertion of an intravenous catheter and method of insertion which minimizes or eliminates the potential for exposure to blood and other bodily fluids during the use and insertion of an intravenous catheter. An intravenous catheter hub has a side opening directly to connected to a port of a multi-port stopcock. A modified syringe and hollow-bore needle are attached directly to the base of the catheter and when properly inserted, the needle extends slightly beyond the tip of the catheter. After the needle is inserted beneath a patient's skin, the syringe is used to generate slight negative pressure so that blood immediately flows into the syringe as soon as a vein is punctured by the needle. The syringe is then removed and the flow of fluids into the patient may be regulated by the multi-port stopcock.

Abstract: An improved hand tool is presented that is useful to pull or push the base of the female member of a snap fastener provided on a heavy fabric-like covering. By pushing or pulling on the female snap member substantially along the plane of the fabric, the snap member can be positioned over a corresponding male snap member for secure fastening. The tool comprises a handle member, an arm, and a force member, which is further provided with tension and compression notches. The tool thus gives the operator a means to positively grasp the female snap member and efficiently apply tension to the fabric covering so as to stretch the covering into the proper shape without substantial damage to the fabric-like covering.