What is a Cannulas?

The IV cannula is very helpful in our life. A cannula is a tube that a medical doctor, nurse, or other person inserts into a patient’s nose or a physiological tube, such as the nose. Cannulas are used to deliver fluids, medicine, or oxygen. Cannulas can also be used to remove blood from the body. And the blood is also drained down.

What are the Different Types of cannulas?

There are two types of cannulas: the first and the second. Each type has several different subtypes.

1. IV cannula

IV CANNULA MEANS – “INTRA VENOUS CANNULA” Cannulas are small, flexible tubes that medical professionals place into veins to administer treatments and medical care. Medical professionals can use cannulas to administer medications, fluids, or blood by inserting them into the nose. Very easily and without causing any discomfort to the patient. The IV cannula is inserted into the vein at a 25⁰ – 30⁰ ANGLE.

Purpose of IV cannula:-

  • Firstly for IV fluid replacement
  • For blood transfusion
  • For drug administration
  • For collecting the blood sample

2. Nasal cannula

Cannulas are made of lacy tubing inserted inside the nose to deliver oxygen. Standard nasal cannulas have a lower oxygen flow than other cannulas, such as high-flow nasal cannulas (HFNC). HFNCs can also heat the gas to 98.6 F or 37 degrees Celsius. Warmer, more humidified air can facilitate easier breathing, while undesirable, dry air can cause airway inflammation.

What are type of IV cannulas?

Peripheral IV cannula – The peripheral IV cannula is the most widely used. It is used for almost all major surgeries and emergency cases and for those seeking radiological imaging. The use of the cannula is enormous.

Central line IV cannula – this type of IV cannula is used mostly for day-to-day treatments that involve the administration of normal fluids over several days so that the organism does not have to suffer much understanding.

They help in the immediate delivery of drugs that work very well to introduce a significant dose of blood or other substances into the body of patients.

This IV cannula is inserted into the femoral, Max Subbilariform, or Boulardi’s jugular vein.

Midline catheter – The midline cannula type is the best choice for individuals undergoing treatment for more than five days but less than one month.

These are more commonly used for blood transfusions or as they are considered a less invasive technique.

Component name of the IV cannula

  1. Threaded Stopper
  2. Hub Cover
  3. Needle Hub
  4. Needle
  5. Wings Body
  6. Port Cap
  7. Silicon Tube
  8. Catheter Holder
  9. Catheter
  10. Needle Cover

I.V Cannula Size/Gauge, Colors, External Diameter, Length Flow Rates  and Uses

1. 14G USE: This is a larger gauge cannula commonly used in Rapid Fluid, Major Surgery, Rapid Blood Transfusion and emergencies or critical cases.
Colour:-                   Orange

External Diameter:- 2.1mm

Length:- 45mm (32mm as per Requirement)

Flow Rates:- 270ml / min.

2. 16G USE: It is used for various intravenous therapies such as trauma and major surgeries, rapid fluid replacement, and rapid blood transfusion, providing a great balance between flow rate and patient comfort.
Colour:-                    Grey

External Diameter:- 1.8mm

Length:- 45mm (32mm as per Requirement)

Flow Rates:- 180ml / min.

3. 17G USE: The larger the cannula, the faster the infusion of drugs and narcotics is possible. Its adaptability to different surgical scenarios allows it to be used in various other ways, including rapid blood transfusion, rapid fluid replacement, severe trauma and major surgery.
Colour:-                     White

External Diameter:- 1.5mm

Length:- 45mm

Flow Rates:- 150ml / min.

4. 18G USE: This cannula is frequently used whenever a small size is required, such as for general fluid administration and storage.

Such as in severe trauma, major surgery, rapid fluid replacement and rapid blood transfusion.

Colour:-                      Green

External Diameter:- 1.3mm

Length:- 45mm (32mm as per Requirement)

Flow Rates:-       90ml / min.]

5. 20G USE: It is commonly used for IV infusions, medication administration, and a wide range of widely used treatments. It is also more suitable for smaller or partial portions.

It is used most frequently. Its equivalent is called the universal cannula.

Colour:-                      Pink

External Diameter:- 1.1mm

Length:- 32mm (45mm as per Requirement)

Flow Rates:-                55ml / min.

5. 22G USE: This cannula is used for administering medications, blood transfusions, infusions to older adults, and other treatments that require a more delicate approach.
Colour:-                            Blue

External Diameter:-      0.9mm

Length:-                     25mm

Flow Rates:-                30ml / min.

6. 24G USE: This cannula is used for medication and fluid infusion in almost all newborns and children.
Colour:-                              Yellow

External Diameter:-      0.7mm

Length:-                     19mm

Flow Rates:-                55ml / min.

7. 26G USE: This cannula for neonates is used when ultra-fine needles are needed, such as in the care of neonates or for patients requiring ultra-fine micro needles.

Colour                          Violet/Purple

External Diameter         0.6mm

Length                         19mm 

Flow Rates                    10ml / min. 

6. Easy Steps on How to insert an IV cannulas

1. Before you begin this procedure, you should prepare all the necessary items. This includes a sterile IV cannula kit, a scale, antiseptic nasal spray, a tourniquet, and an appliance label. This ensures that everything is ready.

2. Explain the procedure to the patient address concerns and obtain informed consent. Position the patient comfortably.

3. Washing hands very thoroughly should be done to maintain hygiene standards and prevent contamination during the procedure by including a sterile compound. This step plays a very important role in preventing infection and ensuring the safety of both patients and healthcare providers.

4. Hold the cannula at an angle of 25 to 30 degrees angle and use controlled hands to insert the cannula into the vein. Make sure the slope is upwards so that there is minimal disturbance to the vessel.

5. Fix the cannula in place with preliminary tape and make sure it is secure but not too tight, allowing easy monitoring of air flow and the insertion site. Ensuring the length of the cannula is appropriate for good nutrition and benefits from acne. Learn more about patients

6. By following this step-by-step guide from IV cannula manufacturer, Denex International, doctors and nurses can increase their efficiency, ensuring a seamless and successful process for optimal patient care. Always follow best practices and guidelines to maintain the highest safety and efficacy standards in IV cannulation.

Note:- The use of all cannulas varies in different cases.