What Is IV Cannula
Aug 11 , 2025
The IV cannula is one of the most essential disposable medical devices used in healthcare settings for fluid administration, blood transfusion, and medication delivery. For wholesalers and procurement teams, understanding IV cannula parts, IV cannula sizes, IV cannula types, IV cannula uses, and IV cannula price is critical for making bulk purchasing decisions that balance quality, compliance, and cost-effectiveness.
This article serves as a concise yet comprehensive buyer’s guide for IV cannulas.
Understanding IV Cannula Parts
An IV cannula is made up of several critical components that ensure safe and effective venous access:
1. Needle (Introducer) – Sharp stainless steel needle to puncture the vein.
2. Cannula (Catheter Tube) – Flexible tube that remains in the vein after insertion.
3. Hub – The connection point for IV lines or syringes.
4. Flashback Chamber – Indicates successful vein puncture by showing blood return.
5. Injection Port – Allows for direct drug administration without removing the line (in some types).
6. Safety Mechanism – Retractable or shielded needle to reduce needlestick injuries (available in safety IV cannulas).
> Tip for Buyers: Always verify that components are made from medical-grade, non-toxic, latex-free materials to reduce allergic reactions.
IV Cannula Size Guide
IV cannula sizes are denoted in Gauge (G), where a lower gauge number means a larger diameter.
| Gauge (G) | Colour Code | Common Uses |
| ------------- | --------------- | ------------------------------------- |
| 14G | Orange | Rapid fluid replacement, trauma cases |
| 16G | Grey | Major surgery, blood transfusions |
| 18G | Green | Blood transfusion, high-volume fluids |
| 20G | Pink | General IV fluids, medications |
| 22G | Blue | Pediatrics, elderly patients |
| 24G | Yellow | Neonatal, very small veins |
> Procurement Insight: Hospitals typically stock a range of sizes to cover emergency, surgical, and general ward needs.
IV Cannula Types
There are several IV cannula types to meet different clinical applications:
1. Standard IV Cannula – For general infusion purposes.
2. Safety IV Cannula – Equipped with a safety device to prevent accidental needle sticks.
3. Winged IV Cannula – Includes plastic wings for easy handling and secure placement.
4. Closed IV Cannula – Minimises blood leakage, ideal for high-volume infusion areas.
Choosing the right type depends on the application, patient demographic, and safety protocols of the healthcare facility.
IV Cannula Uses
IV cannulas are used in a wide range of medical settings:
* Fluid therapy for dehydration and surgery recovery
* Blood transfusions in trauma and anemia cases
* Medication administration for inpatients and emergency care
* Nutritional support for patients unable to eat orally
For pharmacies and clinics, stocking cannulas of multiple gauges ensures readiness for varied patient needs.
IV Cannula Price Considerations
The IV cannula price varies depending on:
* Type (safety cannulas generally cost more than standard ones)
* Gauge size (larger bore cannulas may be priced higher due to material use)
* Order volume (bulk procurement can significantly reduce per-unit costs)
* Certifications & compliance (ISO 13485, CE, FDA)
> Market Trend: Safety IV cannulas are increasingly in demand due to global needlestick prevention regulations, even though they carry a slightly higher unit price.
Final Thoughts for Buyers
When selecting IV cannulas for wholesale distribution:
* Source from reputable, certified manufacturers
* Offer a full gauge range for hospitals and clinics
* Consider stocking both standard and safety types
* Negotiate bulk pricing for long-term contracts
Reliable IV cannula supply is a core requirement for hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, and selecting the right product mix ensures both clinical efficiency and patient safety.
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