Abstract: The disclosure is that of an invention directed to a catheter that includes an internal, distally projecting, proximally removable, puncture needle, thus enabling the catheter to be introduced into a vessel of an animate being without first having to use a sharpened cannula or split needle. A sight zone adjacent the distal end is provided to visually observe blood flow as an indication of proper and accurate insertion.

Abstract: The disclosure is that of an invention directed to a flexible tube for intra-venous feeding, the proximal end of which is permanently and leak-proofedly affixed to a connecting hub and the distal end of which comprises a hollow tip configured to closely but freely retain the distal portion of a removable puncture needle. A puncture needle is provided to effect initial insertion into a vein of an animate being; and a sight zone is provided in either or both of the flexible tube and the handle of the puncture needle for visual observation of liquid flow. There is also disclosed a method of internally coating the inner body of the tube and for externally sheathing the inner body by extrusion coating.