IV Cannula vs IV Catheter: What’s the Difference?

In modern healthcare, the terms IV cannula and IV catheter are often used interchangeably. However, there are important differences in design, application, and usage that every healthcare professional should understand.

This article explains the difference between an IV cannula and an IV catheter, their uses in clinical settings, and which one is best for different medical needs.

What Is an IV Cannula?

An IV cannula is a flexible tube inserted into a vein to provide access for:

• Administering IV fluids

• Delivering medications

• Performing blood transfusions

Most IV cannulas consist of a needle with a plastic sheath. Once inserted, the needle is removed, leaving the sheath in place to maintain venous access.

Common types of IV cannulas:

• IV cannula with injection port

• IV cannula with wings

• Standard IV cannula

What Is an IV Catheter?

An IV catheter is a broader term that refers to any catheter inserted into a vein for intravenous therapy. In fact, the IV cannula is one type of IV catheter.

Other IV catheters include:

• Central venous catheters (CVCs): Inserted into large veins like the jugular or subclavian.

• Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs): Inserted through the arm and advanced to central veins.

• Peripheral IV catheters (PIVCs): The category that includes IV cannulas.

Key Differences: IV Cannula vs IV Catheter

• For routine IV therapy (fluids, antibiotics, transfusions): use an IV cannula.

• For long-term infusion therapy (chemo, TPN, dialysis): use a central venous catheter or PICC line.

• For emergency resuscitation: use a large-bore IV cannula (14G–16G) for rapid fluid delivery.

In short: all IV cannulas are catheters, but not all IV catheters are cannulas.

TICARE® IV Cannulas — Reliable Peripheral Access

At TICARE®, we provide high-quality IV cannulas (14G–24G) designed for safe and efficient venous access. Features include:

• Color-coded hubs for easy identification

• Options with injection port and winged designs

• Sterile, single-use, EO sterilized

• Smooth insertion for patient comfort

Explore our range: TICARE® IV Cannula 14G–24G

FAQs About IV Cannula vs IV Catheter

Q1: Is an IV cannula the same as an IV catheter?
Not exactly — an IV cannula is a type of peripheral IV catheter, but “IV catheter” can also refer to central venous catheters and PICC lines.

Q2: How long can an IV cannula stay in?
Usually 24–72 hours, depending on hospital protocols and patient condition.

Q3: Which is safer — IV cannula or IV catheter?
Both are safe when used correctly. However, central catheters (CVC, PICC) carry higher infection risks than peripheral IV cannulas.

Q4: Can the same IV catheter be used for blood transfusion and medications?
Yes, especially if the cannula has an injection port. For blood transfusions, 18G cannulas are often recommended.

Final Thoughts

The difference between an IV cannula and an IV catheter lies mainly in scope. A cannula is a specific type of peripheral IV catheter used for short-term therapy, while the term “catheter” covers both peripheral and central venous devices.

For routine hospital use, the TICARE® IV cannula offers a safe, effective, and patient-friendly solution.