Poll: What size angiocath do you usually use to start an IV?

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What size angiocath do you usually use to start an IV?

Specializes in NICU.

I work on a renal floor. We usually only have one arm to choose from. Usually that arm has been stuck a ton due to chronic illness. Of course I try to get a 20g, usually have to use a 22g... sometimes can only get a 24g.... if they need blood or something and can't get anything bigger than a 24g then the doc is notified and we have to get a line. Sometimes we have renals with NO veins we have to end up using the Permcath.. which no one is a fan of doing.. But you gotta do what you gotta do..

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Specializes in ED, ICU, PSYCH, PP, CEN.

Usually a 20. Gauge should be chosen based on what needs the patient will have. It is abusive to put in a larger than needed gauge. Ivs are irritating to the veins and there can be complications so it is not wise to always put in the larger ones >18 just because you can.

If I was a patient and that was done to me I would be ****ed.

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Depends upon purpose of the IV: 22 or 24 if only for fluids/antibiotics delivery (smaller cath= more and better blood flow therefore less irritant from antibiotics)., 18 or 20 for surgery, depending upon vein status; 16 or 18 for massive trauma/rapid blood delivery. Of course, all this depends upon the vein status of the patient. I push for a PICC if the patient needs fluids for many days.

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Specializes in private duty/home health, med/surg.

20 if I know they'll be going to surgery, getting blood, or going for a CT with IV contrast. Otherwise, there's no reason not to do a 22 for IV abx/maint fluids.

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Usually drop in 16's when I see the dudes in preop. They never let me down when I really need them. Besides, I have always liked the color the way it glistens through the tegaderm

Ummm....what color are 16s (and 14s)???

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24g Jelco's. 100% of the time.

Yep, 24 gauge! Hard to get anything much larger in veins smaller than on my knuckles!

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Specializes in CT ,ICU,CCU,Tele,ED,Hospice.

again depends on the pt and the use.but generally 20 guage .some 18 if need larger bore ie bloods fluids etc .if trauma once put in 16 nothing larger .if old person or poor veins 22 .pedi 22 or 24 depending on age.

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Specializes in Anesthesia, CTICU.
Usually drop in 16's when I see the dudes in preop. They never let me down when I really need them. Besides, I have always liked the color the way it glistens through the tegaderm

Ummm....what color are 16s (and 14s)???

16's are gray

14's are orange

never seen a 12 though....

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