Cannulation

Question 1

What is cannulation?

Answer 1

Insertion of a small plastic tube (cannula) into a peripheral vein

Question 2

List 6 indications for cannulation

Answer 2

Fluid and electrolyte replacement
Drug administration 
Blood/ blood products administration
Total Parenteral Nutrition administration 
Haemodynamic monitoring
Blood sampling

Question 3

What are 5 advantages of cannulation?

Answer 3

Immediate effect
Control rate of administration
Alternate route if pt can’t tolerate drugs / fluids orally
Some drugs cannot be absorbed by any other route
Pain + irritation is avoided compared to some substances when given SC/IM

Question 4

List 9 complications of cannulation

Answer 4

IV-Site Infection
Cellulitis
Infiltration of tissue
Thrombolism / thrombophlebitis 
Extravasation
Bruising
Air embolism
Haematoma
Phlebitis