IV Cannulation
IV cannulation is one of the most fundamental and frequently performed clinical procedures in healthcare, carried out daily at Moolchand Hospital — one of the best private hospitals in Delhi — by trained doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff across all clinical departments. It involves the placement of a peripheral intravenous cannula (a short, hollow, flexible plastic tube mounted on a metal introducer needle) into a superficial vein, most commonly in the forearm, antecubital fossa, or dorsum of the hand, to establish reliable venous access.
Once a cannula is in place, the vein provides a direct, secure route for the administration of intravenous fluids (normal saline, Ringer's lactate, dextrose), medications (antibiotics, analgesics, antiemetics), blood products (packed red cells, platelets, fresh frozen plasma), contrast agents for imaging (CT, MRI, fluoroscopy), chemotherapy, parenteral nutrition, and emergency drugs.
The procedure begins with selecting an appropriate vein — visible, palpable, and straight — and applying a tourniquet proximal to the intended site to distend the vein. The skin is cleaned with antiseptic. The cannula-over-needle assembly is inserted at a 10–30 degree angle with the bevel up, and correct intravascular placement is confirmed by the appearance of blood in the flashback chamber. The needle is withdrawn while the plastic cannula is advanced fully into the vein. The cannula is secured with a transparent dressing and a clear end-cap or IV line is connected.
Proper technique is essential to minimize complications including haematoma formation, extravasation (leakage of fluid into surrounding tissue), phlebitis (vein inflammation), infection (particularly if aseptic technique is compromised), and arterial puncture. Cannula sites are inspected and changed regularly according to infection control protocols.
At Moolchand Hospital in Lajpat Nagar Delhi, all clinical staff performing IV cannulation are trained in aseptic technique, vein assessment, and complication management, ensuring patient safety and comfort throughout the procedure.
Our team of globally acclaimed super specialists has pioneered several iv cannulation surgeries.
Real patients...Real stories
Patients and their families from more than 50 countries around the world have benefited from our half-century old tradition of excellence in healthcare. Our excellence has led to Moolchand being a preferred choice for many VIP’s including international diplomats and business leaders. Here is what some of our patients have to say about their Moolchand experience.
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Fluid resuscitation
Fluid resuscitation is a critical medical intervention involving the rapid intravenous administration of fluids to restore circulating blood volume, maintain organ perfusion, and stabilize patients experiencing shock, severe dehydration, burns, or major blood loss.
IV cannulation
IV cannulation is the insertion of a short plastic cannula (tube) into a peripheral vein to establish intravenous access for administration of fluids, medications, blood products, or contrast agents in hospitalized or emergency patients.



Consultant, Critical Care