Different Types of IV Cannulas Used in Hospitals | Lars Medicare

 



IV cannulas are categorized based on structure, purpose, safety features, and design. Below are the widely used types in healthcare facilities.

1. Standard IV Cannula (Peripheral IV Cannula)

A standard IV cannula is inserted into peripheral veins for routine IV therapy. It is the most commonly used design across general wards, emergency departments, and outpatient units.

Key Functions

  • Fluid therapy

  • Medication infusion

  • Blood sampling

  • Short-term intravenous access

2. Safety IV Cannula (With Injection Port & Wings)

A Safety IV Cannula is designed to minimize needlestick injuries. Leading brands introduce auto-protective safety shields and retractable mechanisms to prevent accidental exposure.

Variants

Suitable For

  • Critical care units

  • Emergency medicine

  • High-risk procedures

3. Butterfly IV Catheter (Winged Infusion Set)

A Butterfly IV catheter is ideal for delicate or fragile veins. Its flexible wings ensure easy handling, making it suitable for pediatric, neonatal, and geriatric patients.

Best For

  • Short infusions

  • Blood collection

  • Superficial veins

4. IV Cannula with Injection Valve

This type allows for drug administration without repeated needle pricks. It reduces infection risk and improves patient comfort.

Applications

  • Antibiotic therapy

  • Emergency medicine

  • Repeated drug infusion

Understanding IV Cannula Sizes and Color Coding

Each IV catheter size is identified by a universal color code. Choosing the right gauge ensures proper flow rate, minimal discomfort, and reduced complications.

Common Sizes:

Gaue

Color

Flow Rate

Clinical Use

14G

Orange

Very high

Trauma, resuscitation

16G

Grey

High

Surgery, blood transfusion

18G

Green

Medium-high

General use, emergency

20G

Pink

Moderate

Maintenance fluids

22G

Blue

Low

Elderly, pediatric

24G

Yellow

Very low

Neonatal care

26G

Purple

Extremely low

Micro veins

Keywords Integrated

Parts of an IV Cannula and Their Function

Understanding IV cannula parts helps healthcare staff ensure safe insertion and secure fixation.

Main Components

1. Needle (IV Catheter Needle)

2. Catheter Tube

Flexible cannula that stays inside the vein.

3. Flashback Chamber

Indicates blood return, confirming vein entry.

4. Hub and Wings

Allow secure handling and fixation.

5. Injection Port

Enables intermittent drug infusion.

6. Luer Lock Connector

Connects syringes, IV sets, and infusion lines.

Clinical Applications of IV Cannulas

IV cannulas serve wide purposes across all medical departments.

Used For

  • IV fluid administration

  • Emergency resuscitation

  • Blood transfusion

  • Chemotherapy

  • Pain management

  • Electrolyte replacement

Choosing the Right IV Cannula Type

Healthcare professionals select cannulas based on:

1. Patient vein condition

Fragile veins → smaller gauges
 Emergency → larger gauges

2. Purpose of insertion

Blood transfusion → 16–18G
 Maintenance fluids → 20–22G
 Neonatal care → 24–26G

3. Duration of therapy

Short-term → standard cannula
 Long-term → safety cannulas

Why Quality Matters: Role of Manufacturers

Global hospitals always look for reliable IV cannula manufacturers and suppliers that guarantee:

  • Sterile, medical-grade materials

  • Smooth insertion

  • Safe catheter design

  • High flashback visibility

  • Strong hub connection

  • Patient safety

Also Integrated

Advantages of Using Premium IV Cannulas

  • Reduced needlestick injuries

  • Smooth, painless insertion

  • Minimal phlebitis

  • Lower leakage risk

  • Fast drug delivery

  • Reliable performance

Common Mistakes in IV Cannulation (and How to Avoid Them)

  1. Using incorrect cannula size

  2. Inserting into fragile or damaged veins

  3. Poor aseptic technique

  4. Not securing the cannula properly

  5. Incorrect angle of insertion

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which IV cannula size is best for blood transfusion?

18G or 16G are most suitable for rapid transfusion.

2. What is the difference between a safety IV cannula and a standard IV cannula?

Safety cannulas include a protective mechanism to prevent needlestick injuries.

3. How long can an IV cannula remain in place?

Generally 48–72 hours, depending on patient condition.

4. Can the same IV cannula be used for medication and fluids?

Yes, when equipped with an injection port.

Conclusion

Choosing the right IV cannula improves treatment outcomes, patient safety, and clinical efficiency. From emergency care to routine therapy, every cannula type plays a vital role in modern healthcare.
 For high-quality devices manufactured with global safety standards, Lars Medicare Private Limited remains a trusted partner for hospitals worldwide.

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