What does a larger gauge needle indicate about its diameter?

A larger gauge needle indicates a smaller diameter of the needle bore. The gauge system used for needles is somewhat counterintuitive, as a higher gauge number corresponds to a thinner needle. For example, a 25-gauge needle is significantly thinner and has a smaller internal diameter than a 18-gauge needle. This relationship is crucial in various applications, especially in sterile compounding, where the choice of needle gauge can affect the flow rate of medications or the ease of injection.

Understanding this relationship is vital for healthcare professionals, as using an appropriate needle size for specific tasks can enhance efficiency and patient comfort while minimizing risks of complications, such as tissue trauma or hemolysis.