An intravenous (IV) cannula, often simply referred to as an IV catheter, is a medical device used to administer fluids, medications, or blood products directly into a patient's bloodstream. It consists of a hollow, flexible tube (cannula) typically made of plastic or metal, with a sharp needle at one end for insertion into a vein. Once the needle is successfully placed into the vein, it is withdrawn, leaving the cannula in place.
IV cannulas are widely used in healthcare settings for various purposes, including:
Fluid Administration: IV cannulas allow for the rapid and controlled delivery of fluids, such as saline solution or dextrose, directly into the bloodstream. This is essential for maintaining hydration, correcting electrolyte imbalances, and providing nutrients to patients who are unable to take fluids orally.
Medication Administration: Many medications, including antibiotics, pain relievers, and chemotherapy drugs, are administered intravenously using IV cannulas. This route of administration allows for precise dosing and immediate access to the circulatory system, ensuring rapid onset of action when necessary
Blood Transfusion: IV cannulas are used to transfuse blood and blood products, such as packed red blood cells, platelets, or plasma, into patients who require transfusion due to anemia, bleeding disorders, or other medical conditions.
Diagnostic Testing: IV cannulas can facilitate the collection of blood samples for diagnostic testing, such as blood chemistry analysis, complete blood count (CBC), or blood culture.
Intravenous Therapy: In addition to delivering fluids and medications, IV cannulas can be used for specialized intravenous therapies, such as total parenteral nutrition (TPN) for patients who cannot receive nutrition orally or enterally.
There are several types of intravenous (IV) cannulas available, each designed to meet specific patient needs and clinical requirements. Here are some common types of IV cannulas:
Peripheral IV Cannula: This is the most commonly used type of IV cannula. It is inserted into a peripheral vein, typically in the arm or hand, and is secured in place with adhesive dressing. Peripheral IV cannulas come in various sizes, ranging from 14 to 24 gauge, with smaller gauges (larger diameters) allowing for faster flow rates.
Winged or Butterfly Needle: This type of IV cannula features flexible wings on either side of the needle, allowing for easy insertion and stabilization. Butterfly needles are often used for patients with difficult-to-access veins, such as pediatric or elderly patients, or for short-term IV access.
Midline Catheter: A midline catheter is a longer IV cannula (usually 3 to 8 inches in length) that is inserted into a peripheral vein and advanced proximally, usually until the tip reaches the axillary vein. Midline catheters are designed for patients who require intravenous therapy for an extended period (up to 4 weeks) but do not need central venous access.
Central Venous Catheter (CVC): Unlike peripheral IV cannulas, central venous catheters are inserted into larger veins located closer to the heart, such as the subclavian vein or jugular vein. CVCs can remain in place for weeks to months and are used for administering medications, fluids, and parenteral nutrition, as well as for hemodynamic monitoring and blood sampling. Types of CVCs include:
Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC): A long catheter inserted into a peripheral vein and advanced until the tip lies in the central venous system.
Tunneled Catheter: A CVC with a segment of the catheter tunneling under the skin before entering the vein, reducing the risk of infection.
Implanted Port: A CVC that consists of a port implanted under the skin, connected to a catheter inserted into a vein. The port is accessed using a needle for IV therapy, blood draws, or chemotherapy.
Intraosseous (IO) Needle: In emergency situations where intravenous access is difficult or impossible, an IO needle may be used to access the bone marrow space for rapid administration of fluids and medications.
The color of the needle or catheter hub in an IV cannula is typically standardized to help healthcare professionals quickly identify the gauge (diameter) of the cannula. Different countries or healthcare facilities may use slightly different color-coding systems, but there are some common conventions:
Blue: Blue-colored hubs often indicate a 22-gauge IV cannula. These are relatively small and suitable for general-purpose peripheral IV access in adult patients with average-sized veins.
Pink: Pink hubs are typically associated with a 20-gauge IV cannula. These are slightly larger than 22-gauge cannulas and are often used for patients requiring a higher flow rate or for individuals with larger veins.
Green: Green hubs are commonly used for 18-gauge IV cannulas. These are larger-diameter needles that allow for faster fluid administration and are suitable for patients requiring rapid fluid resuscitation or blood transfusions.
Gray: Gray hubs may indicate a 16-gauge IV cannula. These are larger needles primarily used for trauma patients, surgical procedures, or when large volumes of fluid need to be administered quickly.
Yellow: In some systems, yellow hubs are used for pediatric-sized IV cannulas, which are smaller in diameter to accommodate the smaller veins of infants and children.
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