The hidden syringe transfer is named as such because it takes place out of view under the chin of the patient. It enables the operator to receive the anesthetic syringe safely and out of the patient’s line of sight thus avoiding undue patient stress. This transfer also occurs within the transfer zone.
This transfer requires that the assistant and operator plan in advance the technique to avoid the potential of a needle stick. Often the operator prefers to transfer the instrument behind the patient. This area is outside the transfer zone, causing the assistant to use a Class V movement and violate safe transfer. This transfer can be adapted to the use of wand type anesthesia very effectively. Care should be taken that the base unit is located nearby the assistant for easy access. Using a traditional anesthetic syringe the following steps may be followed: