Need clever ideas to develop a simple mechanism to
make it easier to depress a plunger of a large syringe. I volunteer at the
worlds largest Raptor Rehab Center. Frequently we use 60cc plastic syringes to
administer subcutaneous fluids, to rehydrate our patients. The problem is that
many of our female techs have smaller, weaker hands. For that matter, some
of our male techs also don't have the hand strength or size to smoothly depress
the plunger of this large syringe.
The reasons for the problem is twofold. First off, when the
syringe is at maximum capacity, the distance between the top of the plunger
(where your thumb goes), and the body of the canister (where 1st & 2nd
fingers go), is 5". That's a long stretch for a smallish hand.
Secondly, the pressure that needs to be applied is
considerable, because the orifice of the needle is so small compared to body of
syringe, which is 1" diameter.
These two things combine to make it very difficult
to depress the plunger, for some people. The hand often shakes from the strain
and the span, which makes it uncomfortable for the patient. Only one hand can
be used, as the other hand is holding the leg, which is full of large sharp
talons. I'm trying to come up with a solution.
One idea is something with the same principle of a
caulking gun. Another idea is some type of scissor action. Both of these ideas
change the orientation of the grip by 90 degrees... akin to the shape of a gun.
This might not be ideal, as the tip of the needle must be well controlled, as
far as accurate placement. But it's not out of the question.
One caveat to this challenge is that this needs to
be somewhat "home-made". I need to be able to make this attachment by
myself, with basic tools or OEM parts, without the advantages of an advanced
machine shop or molds. It also must be easily removable, to be used on the next
syringe.
Any ideas? May not be possible, but I'm giving it
a shot. If anyone would like to join me in this challenge, suggestions would be
appreciated. They would also be appreciated by our injured hawks, eagles, owls,
osprey and vultures.
Perhaps something like this already exists?
Thank you.
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Need to Increase Syringe Mech Advantage
Re: Need to Increase Syringe Mech Advantage
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