Skill 1Procedural Skill

IV Cannulation (Attempt 1)

Assessor

PGY2+, Nurse, CNE, CIN, NP

Due

Week 7

Requirement

Mandatory

Details

Successful supervised attempt

What Assessors Look For

Correct equipment selection and setup
Appropriate vein selection
Aseptic technique
Smooth cannula insertion
Proper securing and documentation

Key Points to Demonstrate

1Equipment: cannula (20G green for most adults), tourniquet, chlorhexidine, dressing, flush
2Vein selection: non-dominant arm, avoid joints, start distal
3Technique: anchor skin, 30° angle, flashback, advance cannula, release tourniquet
4Secure with transparent dressing, flush with saline
5Document: date, time, site, size, your name

Tips for Success

  • 💡Watch experienced nurses - they have excellent technique
  • 💡Choose good veins early in your rotation before patients get "used up"
  • 💡If you fail, try once more max, then ask for help

Study Resources