What is the best choice of cannula site?

The most common site for an IV catheter is the forearm, the back of the hand or the antecubital fossa. The catheters are for peripheral use and should be placed where veins are easy to access and have good blood flow, although the easiest accessible site is not always the most suitable.

How do I choose an IV site?

When selecting an IV site, assessment of the patient’s condition, vein condition, vein size and location, patient age, and the type and duration of therapy should be done to insure ideal and safe IV access. The most distal sites should be used first, so that you can move proximally as needed.

What are major factors to consider when selecting a vein for an infusion site?

Vein integrity, size, and location. Type and duration of prescribed therapy. Patient’s infusion history. Patient’s preference for location, as appropriate….Avoid the following:

• Areas of pain upon palpation.
• Compromised veins (eg, bruised, phlebitic, infiltrated, sclerosed, corded)
• Areas where there are planned procedures.

What is the criteria for vein selection?

It is essential to assess the veins with ultrasound prior to the procedure to select the vein with optimal characteristics including the size, depth, and pathway with minimal risk to arterial/nerve injury, check the vein for patency, ensure thrombosis is not present, and identify any anatomical variations.

What criteria are used for selection of vein for IV therapy?

Criteria for selection should include the presence of a pulse and assessment of distal circulation. Arteries that should be considered the most appropriate for percutaneous cannulation are the radial, brachial, and femoral.

Which veins are commonly used for cannulation?

Cannulation of the cephalic, basilic, or other unnamed veins of the forearm is preferrable. The three main veins of the antecubital fossa (the cephalic, basilic, and median cubital) are frequently used. These veins are usually large, easy to find, and accomodating of larger IV catheters.

What veins should I avoid for cannulation?

Avoid using the antecubital veins as this will restrict the patient’s movement and increase the risk of complications such as phlebitis and infiltration (Dougherty & Watson, 2011; RCN, 2010).