Identify the size of IV Cannula in the image?

Appeared in: NORCET 1 - 2020

Explanation

The image shows an IV cannula with a pink hub.
In the universal color-coding system for IV cannulas, pink signifies a 20-gauge (20 G) size.
A 20 G cannula has a flow rate of approximately 60 mL/min.
It is commonly used for routine IV fluid administration, giving medications, and standard blood transfusions in adult patients.

Option B: A 14 G cannula has an orange hub, not pink. It is a much larger size used for massive trauma and rapid infusions.
Option C: A 16 G cannula has a grey hub. While used for trauma and surgery, it is not represented by the pink color in the image.
Option D: An 18 G cannula has a green hub. It is larger than the 20 G and is not pink.

Visual 1: Chart - A comparative chart showing all IV cannula sizes (14G to 26G) with their corresponding colors, flow rates, and primary clinical indications. This provides a comprehensive reference for students.
Visual 2: Infographic - An infographic illustrating the inverse relationship between gauge number and cannula diameter. For example, showing a large 14G cannula next to a small 24G cannula to visually reinforce the concept.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification of IV cannula size based on universal color coding as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Selecting the appropriate IV cannula size is a fundamental nursing skill that directly impacts patient safety and treatment effectiveness. Using a cannula that is too small can delay the delivery of critical fluids or medications, while one that is too large can cause unnecessary pain and vein trauma.
What if? If the patient in this scenario suddenly required a rapid blood transfusion due to unexpected bleeding, the 20G (pink) cannula might be insufficient. The nurse would need to consider inserting a larger bore cannula, such as an 18G (green) or 16G (grey), to ensure the blood can be administered quickly without lysing the red blood cells.
In emergency situations, the color-coding system allows for immediate identification and selection of the correct cannula, saving valuable time.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully observe the image provided with the question. Identify the key feature, which in this case is the color of the IV cannula's hub.
The hub in the image is pink.
Next, recall the universal color-coding system for IV cannulas.
Match the observed color (pink) to the corresponding gauge size in the color-coding system.
Confirm that pink corresponds to 20 G. Select this as the correct answer and mentally cross-check the colors for the other options (14G-Orange, 16G-Grey, 18G-Green) to ensure accuracy.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Identification of IV cannula size based on universal color coding.
Stem keywords: IV Cannula, size, image
Lead-in keywords: Identify
Clinical cues: The pink color of the cannula hub is the primary clinical cue for identification.

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Practise the full NORCET 1 - 2020

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.