Researcher ORCID Identifier

0009-0006-6447-4100

Graduation Year

2025

Document Type

Campus Only Senior Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Biology

Reader 1

Pete Chandrangsu

Reader 2

Sarah Budischak

Reader 3

None

Abstract

The stainless steel hypodermic needle is the most common tool for injection practices. This is because of its strong performance and adaptability to other models of syringes. However, the current model of the needle is being discussed due to increased safety risks involving needle stick injuries. While stainless steel was determined to remain the most efficient material for the needle, microbial corrosion can accelerate contamination of the metal. To increase safety, there needs to be a protective additive to improve its durability. This thesis analyzes the current model of hypodermic needles and attempts to remodel it through a protective Silver Phosphate Glass layer on the outside of the hypodermic needle. Using A. baumannii as a representative of hospital-based microbes, control needles and needles covered with Silver Phosphate Glass were exposed to microbes and washed with sterile water. Colony forming units (CFU’s) of A. baumannii in the wash were counted in petri dishes. The needles with the Silver Phosphate Glass layer contained less CFU’s than the control needles, suggesting that the protective layer increased the metal’s durability to microbial corrosion. This data shows that increasing the durability of stainless steel directly leads to increased sterility and higher safety regarding needle handling.

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This thesis is restricted to the Claremont Colleges current faculty, students, and staff.

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