What does the flange on the plunger of a syringe assist with?

The flange on the plunger of a syringe plays a crucial role in assisting the user with grip and stability while pulling back or pushing the plunger. By providing a wider surface area for the fingers to hold onto, the flange allows for better control during the administration of injections or the extraction of fluids, contributing to precision and reducing the risk of accidental slips during use.

While the other functions mentioned—such as creating a seal, measuring liquid, and securing the needle—are important in the overall operation of a syringe, they are not the primary role the flange serves. Creating a seal typically relates to the rubber tip on the plunger that works within the barrel to prevent leaks, while measurement is achieved through clear markings along the syringe barrel. Securing the needle is managed through the luer lock or slip tip mechanism, which is separate from the flange function. Therefore, the key contribution of the flange is enhancing user grip for stability during syringe operation.