Abstract: A patch of temperature-sensitive liquid crystal material adheres to a patient's skin to serve as an indicator of infiltration during intravenous (or intraarterial, intra-lymphatic vessel, etc.) insertion procedures. The material is selected so as to have a constant color over a temperature range which spans the normal skin temperature range. The patch is placed immediately downstream of the insertion point and preferably has a straight forward edge to permit rapid color change over a broad section of the patch in response to infiltration. The patch may include a downstream extension, remote from the likely infiltration region, which experiences infiltration-responsive color change considerably later than the forward edge, thereby providing a color contrast to facilitate visual detection.

Abstract: An intravenous flow control valve includes an in-line valving mechanism as opposed to a tube clamp. The mechanism includes an adjustment member and a locking mechanism for selectively locking the adjustment member in place and thereby assure accurate flow rate settings.

Abstract: A safety valve for catheterization procedures is characterized by a piston having an internal flow path, a portion of the piston being surrounded by an elastomeric member which surrounds a portion of the piston and biases it to a closed position. The elastomeric member also severely restricts fluid flow around the piston to eliminate any flow path other than the internal piston flow path.

Abstract: A fitting for use in performing a vascular puncture includes a system for rapidly and securely stabilizing an intravascular catheter or needle to a patient's skin upon insertion of the needle or catheter into a blood vessel. The hub of the needle or catheter has upper and lower lateral wings extending from its opposite sides. The wings are folded up over the hub and gripped together while a vascular puncture is made and then the lower wings, which have adhesive under surfaces, are released and dabbed onto the skin to rapidly stabilize the fitting. The upper wings can be taped down over the lower wings to effect a more permanent attachment of the fitting.