As gauge increases, what happens to the size of the needle?

As the gauge of a needle increases, the size of the needle decreases. The gauge is a numerical representation of the diameter of the needle; therefore, a higher gauge number indicates a thinner needle. This measurement system is somewhat counterintuitive because an increase in gauge means a reduction in the needle's actual diameter.

In practical terms, a higher gauge needle, such as a 25-gauge, is thinner compared to a lower gauge needle, like a 21-gauge. Thinner needles are often used for applications where less discomfort is desired, such as injecting medications for sensitive patients. Understanding this relationship between gauge and needle size is crucial for pharmacy technicians, as it impacts the choice of needle for various medical procedures.