At our flu shot events, we use the VanishPoint® syringes. These syringes have automated needle retraction to help reduce your risk for exposure to the contaminated needle. They’re a single-use syringe that can only be used with the attached needle. 

We send 1mL, 1-inch needle VanishPoint® safety syringes and 3mL, 1 1/2-inch needle VanishPoint® safety syringes to events with multi-dose vials of vaccine. You can easily tell the difference between the two sizes of VanishPoint® syringes by looking at the end of the plunger. The 1mL, 1-inch needle VanishPoint®safety syringe plunger ends are clear. The 3mL, 1 1/2-inch needle VanishPoint® safety syringe plunger ends are orange. When manufacturer filled syringes are used, we send 1-inch and 1 1/2-inch safety needles. 

For the most part, VanishPoint® syringes work like any other syringe you’ve used. We thought we’d give you a little overview, though, so you know exactly what to expect.

Here’s how the new syringes work:

Step 1—Prepare and give the flu vaccination according to the policies outlined in the TotalWellness Contractor Manual.

Step 2—Be sure to depress the plunger all the way down to activate the needle retraction while the needle is still in the participant's arm.

Step 3—The needle will automatically retract into the syringe. Be aware that the needle retracts or "Vanishes" into the barrel of the syringe and is not stuck in the participant's arm.

Step 4—Dispose of the syringe (with the needle inside) in the provided sharps container.

Here’s a great video of steps 2 and 3 in action:

Keep in mind that the needle will retract as soon as the plunger is pushed all the way down - even if the needle isn't in a participant's arm. That means it's important to be careful about adjusting the plunger when injecting air while you draw up your vaccine. If you trigger the needle retraction before administering the shot, you've wasted that syringe.

We chose VanishPoint® syringes because we believe they provide maximum safety for both our nurses and participants. They’re simple to use, and retract the needle securely.

Do you have any questions about VanishPoint® syringes you’ll be using at flu shot events this year?