IV Cannulation
This short guide will introduce you to the importance of Intravenous Cannulation, risks and complications, and guide you through the cannulation procedure. Please also refer to the IV Cannulation - Good Practice Guidance for further information.
Introduction
Equipment Preparation
Equipment Required
· Safety cannula (appropriate size)
· Tourniquet (disposable)
· Gloves (non-sterile)
· Skin cleansing swab (i.e. chlorhexidine gluconate in 70% isopropyl alcohol)
· Sterile transparent film dressing
· 10ml syringe sterile
· 0.9% sodium chloride flush
· Sharps disposal container and Clean tray
Safety cannula
Disposable tourniquet
Gloves (non-sterile)
Skin cleansing swab
Sterile transparent film dressing
10ml syringe
Sterile 0.9% sodium chloride flush
Sharps Bin and Clean Tray
Patient Preparation and Consent
Introduce yourself to the patient by stating your name and title. Confirm the patient’s identity by checking their name, date of birth and address, and establish whether they have any known allergies. Explain the cannulation procedure clearly, including what the patient should expect, and obtain verbal consent before proceeding. When selecting a suitable cannulation site, consider the patient’s medical history, comfort, vein availability and dominant hand.
Site Selection and Vein Assessment
Select a suitable cannulation site by assessing the available veins carefully. Palpate the vein to check its position, size, depth and suitability, avoiding areas close to joints, valves or veins that are fragile, damaged or previously used. Take additional care when assessing patients who may have more vulnerable veins, such as those who are elderly, frail or receiving chemotherapy, and choose the most appropriate site to support safe and effective cannulation.
Cannulation Procedure
Key points to avoid during cannulation
During cannulation, avoid re-palpating the site after it has been cleaned and ensure the antiseptic has fully dried before proceeding. Once the cannula is positioned, do not advance the needle and cannula together, as this may increase the risk of vein trauma. Maintain skin traction throughout the procedure to support accurate placement and reduce the risk of movement.
Complications and Trouble Shooting
Monitor the patient and cannulation site for signs of complications, including infiltration, phlebitis or infection. If insertion is unsuccessful, reassess the vein and technique, including whether the angle of insertion needs to be adjusted. Follow local escalation procedures, such as limiting attempts and seeking support from an experienced member of staff. Explain the situation clearly to the patient and, if appropriate, attempt cannulation again at a different site using fresh equipment.
Summary
Key points to remember
• Maintain effective infection prevention measures throughout the procedure.
• Dispose of sharps safely and immediately in the correct sharps’ container.
• Complete accurate documentation and follow escalation procedures when required.
• Continue to develop cannulation skills through supervised practice and clinical guidance.
Credits
Thank you to:
- Marianne Fairley-Murdoch - Senior Lecturer in Nursing, Programme Director MSc Advancing Practice & Fitness to Practise Lead, Stirling University
- Nicola Docherty - Dental Educator, PSD Scotland
- James Bremner - Specialist Digital Lead, PSD Scotland
Stirling University - For use of their Clinical Skills Lab
Review
- Published 01/08/2026
- Due for Review 01/08/2027