Overview

Intravenous Cannulation is a procedure used to insert a catheter into a peripheral vein for administration of fluids, medications, or blood products.

IV cannulation is crucial for providing venous access in hospitalized patients, enabling fluid resuscitation, medication administration, and blood sampling.

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Indications

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Fluid Administration

Hydration, resuscitation

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Medication Administration

IV medications

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Blood Transfusion

Blood products

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Diagnostic Testing

Blood sampling

✓
Emergency Access

Rapid venous access

Contraindications

Absolute Contraindications

✗ Patient refusal
✗ Infection at site

Relative Contraindications

✗ Lymphedema
✗ Previous surgery
✗ Thrombosis

📋 Equipment Checklist

Check off items as you gather them:

Pre-procedure Preparation

Preparation includes patient consent, equipment setup, vein assessment, and understanding contraindications.

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Patient Preparation

Explain procedure, obtain consent, position patient.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Inadequate consent
  • Poor positioning

💡 Pro Tip:

Position patient comfortably.

Step 2: Vein Assessment

Assess and select appropriate vein.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Poor vein selection
  • Inadequate assessment

💡 Pro Tip:

Choose visible, palpable vein.

Step 3: Skin Preparation

Clean skin with antiseptic solution.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Inadequate cleaning
  • Contamination

💡 Pro Tip:

Use proper antiseptic technique.

Step 4: Tourniquet Application

Apply tourniquet proximal to site.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Wrong placement
  • Too tight

💡 Pro Tip:

Apply with adequate pressure.

Step 5: Cannula Insertion

Insert cannula with proper technique.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Wrong angle
  • Multiple attempts

💡 Pro Tip:

Use 15-30 degree angle.

Step 6: Catheter Securing

Secure catheter and connect tubing.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Poor securing
  • Dislodgement

💡 Pro Tip:

Use proper taping technique.

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Post-procedure Care

Post-procedure care involves monitoring for complications, securing the catheter, and maintaining patency.

Complications & Management

Complication Incidence Signs Management Prevention
Infiltration 5-10% Swelling, pain Remove, apply pressure Proper technique
Phlebitis 3-8% Redness, pain Remove, warm compress Proper site selection
Hematoma 2-5% Bruising, swelling Pressure, ice Proper technique
Infection 1-3% Erythema, pain Remove, antibiotics Sterile technique

Clinical Pearls

💡

Choose the largest, most accessible vein.

🎯

Use proper antiseptic technique.

⚡

Insert at 15-30 degree angle.

🔍

Confirm blood return before advancing.

📊

Secure catheter properly.

🎨

Monitor for complications.

⚠️

Remove when no longer needed.