IV Cannulation 💉
Step-by-step guide for IV cannulation. Technique, site selection, troubleshooting, and complications for NCHDs performing vascular access.
🧠 Indications
- Fluid resuscitation
- IV medications or contrast
- Pre-op access
🛠️ Equipment Checklist
- Sharps bin
- Gloves ± apron
- Tourniquet
- Alcohol swab
- IV cannula (x2)
- Extension set or bung
- Gauze + transparent dressing
- Flush (e.g. 0.9% NaCl in 10ml syringe)
- Adhesive tape
📋 Procedure Steps
- Explain procedure and gain consent
- Wash hands, don gloves and apron
- Apply tourniquet and palpate suitable vein
- Clean site — allow to dry completely
- Insert cannula bevel up at ~30° angle
- Look for flashback, then advance cannula only, at a lower angle
- Release tourniquet, apply pressure proximal to insertion site, remove needle
- Connect bung, flush and confirm patency
- Secure with dressing, dispose sharps safely
- Label site with date/time/initials
⚠️ Troubleshooting & Tips
- Try distal veins before proximal
- Warm the limb to dilate vessels
- Lower the limb to promote venous filling
- Avoid valves and joints
- If repeated failures: escalate for senior review or consider ultrasound-guidance
🧾 Documentation
- Date, time, location and side
- Cannula size and number of attempts
- Any complications or difficulties
- Flushed and patent?
- Signed with name and contact number
Educational reference only. Medical disclaimer