#$%^&*AU2016269475B220190725.pdf#####H: px Interwoven NRPortbl DCC PXA 12313524_1.doc-6/12/2016 ABSTRACT A catheter insertion device comprising: a catheter hub comprising an interior cavity having an opening at a proximal end； a catheter tube having a distal end opening 5 extending distally of the catheter hub； a needle having a needle shaft defining a needle axis projecting distally of an end of a needle hub, said needle projecting through the catheter tube and comprising a needle tip； a valve positioned inside the interior cavity of the catheter hub, said valve obstructing fluid flow and comprises a slit； said valve remaining inside the interior cavity of the catheter hub when the needle is removed 10 from the catheter tube and the catheter hub； a valve actuating element slidingly disposed in the interior cavity of the catheter hub to actuate the valve in a distal direction, the valve actuating element comprising a tapered nose section with an opening structured to push the valve to open the slit, and at least one plunger element extending proximally of the nose section and having a cross-sectional dimension 15 smaller than the nose section and a proximal end surface； wherein the at least one plunger element is slidable distally within the catheter hub when the proximal end surface is pressed distally to push the valve to open the slit； and a needle protective device positioned proximal of the valve and at least in part around the needle and distal of the proximal end of the needle hub in a ready position, the needle protective device 20 is movable to prevent unintended needle sticks.1/3 co 0i +0 -- :-cca C%'4 (N-
