The IV Cannula: A Device for Different Age Groups
One feature that sets IV cannulas apart is that they are made in different sizes, each suited to a specific age group. Sizing is based on diameter. Intravenous cannulas are also color-coded, which makes it easier to identify the type of fluid being infused.
Specifications and Uses of 8 Types of IV Cannulas
| Color |
Size (Gauge) |
Use |
| Orange |
14 |
Blood transfusion in adults, in emergencies and when a large volume of blood is lost |
| Gray |
17 |
Delivering viscous fluids such as colloid solutions to adults (when needed); rapid fluid delivery when fast results are required |
| White |
IV |
Blood transfusion, trauma and surgery |
| Green |
18 |
In the operating room for giving blood or fluids to adults; large volumes of fluid in major surgery; severe bleeding |
| Pink |
20 |
The most widely used in clinical settings; IV delivery of blood, fluids or medication to adolescents or adults who need it, when slow, long-term delivery is required |
| Blue |
22 |
Chemotherapy; IV injections in children and adolescents with finer veins |
| Yellow |
24 |
Injections for children and the elderly |
| Violet |
26 |
Newborns, infants and children up to 4 years |
The IV Cannula and Its Components
An IV cannula is essentially a thin, hollow plastic tube. This widely used medical device is made up of several parts, each with a specific role. The figure below shows the components of the different types of IV cannulas.
The Importance of Choosing the Right IV Cannula
As we mentioned earlier, IV cannulas come in various sizes, each suited to a specific age group with its own function. Care must therefore be taken when choosing this device to avoid possible complications, such as pain.
Choosing the right IV cannula depends on several factors, three of which are listed below:
Vein thickness
Vein thickness is one of the important factors in choosing an IV cannula. In general, if the patient has thin, fragile, delicate veins, a pink IV cannula should be used. On the other hand, for many adults whose veins are thicker than those of adolescents and children, sizes 14 and 22 are recommended.
Patient age
Consider the patient’s age. Choosing the wrong IV cannula can cause problems. For example, using a thick cannula such as the gray or orange model, or even pink or blue, for children and infants may rupture their veins during infusion.
Type of infused substance
The type of infused substance is another factor in choosing the type of IV cannula. Typically, thicker cannulas are used to deliver steroid and crystalloid solutions so they can be delivered into the body with moderate pressure.
The IV Cannula and How to Use It
One question you may have is how the different types of IV cannulas are used. The answer is simple! The needle part of the cannula passes through the skin with a bevel cut, enters the vein, and fluids are delivered.
One capability the IV cannula gives users is being able to see blood in the vein. This happens as the catheter slides over the top of the needle, producing a flashback signal, after which blood can be drawn from the body or fluids can be delivered into the vein.
Signs of a Problem with the IV Cannula
Sometimes while using an IV cannula you may notice signs such as redness and swelling, burning and blistering, bleeding, or blood collecting in or around the skin. These signs indicate a problem with the intravenous cannula, and you should raise it with the doctor as soon as possible.
What Role Does Size Play in Choosing and Using an IV Cannula?
IV cannula size is a key factor in choosing this device. It is so important that choosing the wrong size can cause complications such as vein rupture, pain, infection, skin swelling and problems delivering fluids into the vein.
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