A stylet for insertion within a cannula interior of a needle is disclosed. The stylet includes a solid elongated shaft having a proximal end adapted for engagement with a needle hub, and a distal end having a surface modified profile. The surface modified profile increases the penetration force required to penetrate human skin. The ratio of the penetration force of a stylet having an unmodified distal end to the stylet having a surface modified profile is at least 1:1.4, or greater. The surface modified profile may be a roughened surface, a buffed surface and/or a blunted surface. The surface modified profile may include a yieldable material disposed over at least a portion of the distal end. A needle assembly having a stylet having a surface modified profile is also disclosed.