Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) Practice Exam

Which term refers to the bore of a needle?

1. Gauge

2. Brand

3. Bevel

4. Length

The correct answer is: Gauge

The term that refers to the bore of a needle is "gauge." The gauge is a standard measurement that indicates the diameter of the needle’s lumen, which affects the flow rate of the substance being injected or withdrawn. A higher gauge number corresponds to a smaller needle bore, while a lower gauge number indicates a larger bore. Understanding needle gauge is essential for healthcare professionals as it informs them on selecting the appropriate needle size based on the procedure, patient, and substance type. In contrast, "brand" refers to the manufacturer of the needle and does not relate to its physical dimensions. "Bevel" describes the angled tip of the needle that allows for smoother penetration of tissue; it is important for reducing trauma but does not pertain to the bore size. "Length" indicates how long the needle is, which is relevant in determining how deeply it can penetrate but does not characterize the inner diameter of the needle bore.