Episode notes
Intravenous and Arterial Cannulation: Time to Rethink Safety and First-Attempt Success
What is a Cannula?
A cannula (from the Latin “little reed”) is a small, flexible tube inserted into the body, most commonly into veins or arteries. It is used to:
- Deliver fluids, medications, blood, or nutrition (IV therapy)
- Remove fluids or draw blood for investigations
- Continuously monitor blood gases and pH in critically ill patients
Venous and arterial cannulation are among modern healthcare's most frequently performed invasive procedures, spanning emergency rooms, operating theatres, ICUs, and general wards.
Training methods vary across institutions:
- Traditional “see one, do one, teach one” approa ...