Abstract: A catheter clamp. The clamp comprises a snap-acting device which contains a rotatable inner and outer member. The inner member has an inner passageway for a catheter and an outer surface containing at least one protrusion. The outer member has an interior beveled sidewall. When the outer member is twisted or rotated in a first direction relative to the inner member, the protrusion on the inner member is compressed by the beveled sidewall, thereby compressing the inner member and the catheter. When the outer member is twisted in the opposite direction relative to the inner member, the protrusion disengages from the beveled sidewall and the catheter is decompressed. Use of the clamp in conjunction with a catheter contamination sleeve is disclosed.

Abstract: This invention relates to an improved arterial catheterization system which is designed to allow the user to quickly visualize the early flashback of blood after penetration of a vessel. The improved arterial catheterization system of this invention allows for minimum blood loss during initial penetration of the blood vessel. Specifically, this invention is directed to a system for introducing an over-the-needle catheter into a blood vessel, and comprises an inserter unit having a hollow needle and a catheter having a lumen such that the catheter is adapted to be carried on the needle. The catheter and needle cooperate to form a first flashback chamber therebetween. The first flashback chamber is at least partially translucent and allows for the visualization of blood flow upon insertion of the needle into a blood vessel. A guide wire, which is slidably mounted on the inserter unit within the needle, is dimensioned in relation to the needle in order to provide a blood flow passage therebetween.