IV Cannulas Explained: Safety, Non-Safety and Integrated Types

IV cannulas come in three types: non-safety, safety, and integrated safety with an extension line. Each is colour-coded by gauge so a nurse can identify the size at a glance. This guide explains the types we supply, how the gauges are coded, what to look for when you compare cannulas, and the training we offer teams that are switching.

OscarTech UK is an awarded NHS Supply Chain framework supplier. We hold stock in the UK, and our IV cannula range is CE marked and MHRA UK registered.

The three types of IV cannula we supply

Non-safety IV cannulas

A standard cannula without a safety mechanism, for settings where a non-safety device is appropriate. We supply three:

• EASY-VEIN: with wings for secure fixation and an injection port, so medication can be given without disconnecting the IV line.
• EASY-VEIN WIN: a straight cannula without wings or an injection port, with a hydrophobic filter that helps prevent blood leakage and air entry. Suited to short-term IV therapy.
• EASY-VEIN NEO: with small wings for secure fixation, without an injection port.

See all of them together on our non-safety cannula page.

Safety IV cannulas

A safety cannula has an integrated mechanism that helps protect clinicians from accidental needlestick injuries, and supports safer handling and disposal of used needles. We supply two:

• EASY-VEIN SAFY SUPER: with flexible wings and an injection port.
• EASY-VEIN WIN SAFY SUPER: compact and lightweight, without wings or an injection port, with backflow control to help minimise blood leakage.

See the safety cannula page for both.

Integrated safety IV cannulas

EASY-VEIN CONTROL WAY brings the cannula, an extension line and one or two needle-free connectors into one device. Its closed infusion design with an integrated valve helps prevent backflow, blood leakage and contamination, and an integrated sliding clamp gives precise flow control. It also has an active safety system to help protect clinicians from needlestick injuries. It is supplied in 18G to 24G.

IV cannula gauge colour chart

Gauge sizes are colour-coded on the hub, so the size can be recognised without reading the label:

• 14G: orange
• 16G: grey
• 18G: green
• 20G: pink
• 22G: blue
• 24G: yellow
• 26G: violet

26G is available in our safety and non-safety ranges, but not in CONTROL WAY. Which gauge to use for which patient is a clinical decision made under your own policies. The chart is only there to help identify the size. The sizes and reference codes for every product are listed on the IV cannula range page.

A buyer's checklist for comparing IV cannulas

• Safety mechanism: does the device protect the clinician, and how is it activated?
• Flashback chamber: is it transparent, so blood return is easy to see?
• Colour-coded hub: can the gauge be identified at a glance?
• Catheter: is it radiopaque, smooth and kink-resistant? Our catheters are radiopaque and DEHP free.
• Sterile and single-use: with clear labelling and traceability.
• Regulatory status: CE marked and registered with the MHRA, so it can be placed on the UK market.
• Supply: is stock held in the UK, and can delivery be arranged around your needs? We hold stock in the UK and are flexible about delivery options.
• Training: will the supplier help your teams use the device with confidence?

Training for your teams

A new device works best when the people using it feel ready. Our Clinical Support Hub offers:

• a training portal with guides and videos your teams can return to;
• staff sign-off certificates for completed training;
• ad-hoc and group sessions, when and how it suits your teams;
• on-site training at your trust or ward.

We are also setting up practical training at our clinic partner, VitaLync Diagnosis, a CQC-registered provider. The Slough, Berkshire clinic is moving to Beechwood House, 2-10 Windsor Road, Slough SL1 2EJ, and opens in the next few weeks. Training at Neasden and Victoria, London is coming soon. You can register your interest or book a training session now.

Switching IV cannula supplier

Moving supplier is a big decision, so we keep it simple: evaluate, approve, train, go live. Most trusts begin with a small evaluation on one ward. We send an evaluation pack that includes every gauge, so there is nothing to choose and nothing to set up. Once you have your team's clinical feedback, we talk through supply chain, stock, training and ongoing support. Read how it works on our switching page, or request an evaluation pack.