An Atlas Surgical Guide for Healthcare Professionals
At Atlas Surgical, we understand that precision matters—especially when it comes to patient care. One of the most common yet critical devices used in hospitals worldwide is the IV cannula. Though small in size, its impact is significant.
Many healthcare professionals face the question daily:
“Which IV cannula size should I use?”
In this article, we break down the importance of IV cannula sizes, their uses, and why selecting the right one is essential for patient safety and treatment efficiency.
What Is an IV Cannula?
An Intravenous (IV) cannula is a flexible plastic tube inserted into a vein to allow direct access to the bloodstream. It’s used for:
- Administering medications
- Delivering IV fluids
- Transfusing blood
- Emergency interventions
At Atlas Surgical, we manufacture a full range of premium IV cannulas designed for smooth, painless insertions and reliable performance.
Understanding IV Cannula Sizes
IV cannulas are classified by gauge (G)—the measurement that refers to the needle's outer diameter. They are also color-coded for quick identification.
Key Rule:
- Lower gauge number = Larger cannula size
- Higher gauge number = Smaller cannula size
IV Cannula Size Chart (Atlas Surgical Standard)
| Gauge (G) | Color Code | Outer Diameter | Flow Rate (Approx.) | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14G | Orange | 2.0 mm | 270 ml/min | Trauma, shock, emergency fluid resuscitation |
| 16G | Grey | 1.7 mm | 180 ml/min | Major surgery, rapid blood transfusion |
| 18G | Green | 1.3 mm | 90 ml/min | Routine IV fluids, blood products |
| 20G | Pink | 1.1 mm | 60 ml/min | Medications, maintenance IV therapy |
| 22G | Blue | 0.9 mm | 36 ml/min | Pediatrics, elderly, small veins |
| 24G | Yellow | 0.7 mm | 20 ml/min | Neonates, fragile veins |
Why Does Size Matter?
1. Flow Rate
- Larger cannulas (14G-16G): Deliver fluids faster—ideal for emergencies.
- Smaller cannulas (22G-24G): Provide slower infusion rates but are less invasive.
2. Patient Safety & Comfort
Using the correct size reduces the risk of:
- Vein trauma
- Infiltration (fluid leakage into surrounding tissue)
- Pain or discomfort during cannulation
3. Clinical Application
Each size has a specific purpose:
| Cannula Size | Best For |
|---|---|
| 14G / 16G | Trauma, massive transfusions, shock management |
| 18G / 20G | Routine IV therapy, general medications, blood transfusions |
| 22G / 24G | Pediatrics, geriatrics, delicate veins, neonatology |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
At Atlas Surgical, we believe in precision healthcare, which is why proper cannula size selection is key. Avoid these errors:
- Using one size for all patients—Assess each case individually.
- Forcing a large cannula into a small vein—This can lead to failure or injury.
- Using too small a cannula in emergencies—Can delay life-saving treatments.
Atlas Surgical IV Cannulas: Trusted Worldwide
Our IV cannulas are engineered for safety and performance, featuring:
- Ultra-sharp bevel for painless insertion
- Kink-resistant tubing
- Color-coded hubs for easy identification
- Sterile, single-use, and CE marked for global standards
Conclusion
Selecting the right IV cannula size is not just a technical choice—it’s a clinical responsibility. The right decision improves patient outcomes, reduces complications, and ensures smoother therapy delivery.
At Atlas Surgical, we’re committed to providing healthcare professionals with high-quality, precision medical devices for better care.
Need IV Cannulas for Your Facility?
Explore our full range of IV Cannulas and Infusion Therapy Products today.
📞 Contact Us: +91-9810032303
🌐 Website: https://atlasmedicaldisposables.com/
📍 Visit Us: 17 Shivaji Marg, Najafgarh Road Industrial Area, New Delhi 110015 (INDIA)
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