Intravenous Cannulation

1. Use the forearm or preferably veins of dorsum of hand for the insertion of the cannula. FG16 or FG18 (pink or green) are the most commonly selected sizes. Do not use a cannula smaller than FG16 for blood transfusions. Subcutaneous infiltrations of local anaesthetic may obscure the position of the underlying vein.

2. Cleanse the skin. Apply a tourniquet.

3. Insert the cannula with a bevel upwards obliquely to the skin whilst fixing the vein by skin tension. When blood is seen to ‘flash-back’, gently advance the plastic outer cannula over the needle into the vein and withdraw the needle.

4. Blood can be withdrawn now if necessary.

5. Screw on the retaining cap to prevent retrograde flow of blood.

6. Secure the cannula with tape of and a bandage for added security. A splint will be necessary if an antecubital vein is selected.

7. Flush the cannula with sterile saline to check patency.

Does your patient feel like a pin cushion?

 

 

 

Also see  :  Venepuncture      Injections—s/c and  i/m     Arterial Blood Gases

Remember to keep the arm straight to avoid tissuing!