Intravenous (IV) catheters are essential medical devices used to deliver fluids, medications, blood products, and nutrition directly into a patient’s bloodstream. Selecting the correct IV catheter size is critical for patient comfort, safety, and effective therapy. This guide explains IV catheter sizes, standard color codes, gauge meanings, and how to choose the right catheter for different clinical needs.

What Does IV Catheter Gauge Mean?

IV catheter size is measured in gauge (G). Unlike many measurements, a smaller gauge number means a larger catheter diameter, while a larger gauge number indicates a thinner catheter. For example, a 14G catheter is much larger than a 22G catheter.

The gauge directly impacts:

Flow rate of fluids or blood

Type of therapy administered

Vein size and patient condition

Higher flow requirements need larger gauges, while fragile or small veins require smaller gauges.

IV Catheter Color Codes and Sizes

To make identification quick and error-free, IV catheters follow international color-coding standards. While slight variations may exist between manufacturers, the commonly accepted colors are:

14G (Orange): Used for trauma, massive fluid resuscitation, and emergency situations requiring very high flow rates.

16G (Grey): Suitable for blood transfusions, surgery, and rapid fluid administration.

18G (Green): One of the most commonly used sizes for blood transfusions, IV fluids, and contrast injections.

20G (Pink): Ideal for routine IV therapy, medications, and moderate fluid delivery.

22G (Blue): Used for elderly patients, pediatric care, and patients with small or fragile veins.

24G (Yellow): Designed for neonates, infants, and patients with extremely delicate veins.

These color codes allow healthcare professionals to instantly recognize catheter size, even in emergency settings.

How to Choose the Right IV Catheter Size

Selecting the appropriate IV catheter depends on several factors:

Type of Therapy High-volume fluids, blood transfusions, or emergency resuscitation require larger gauges (14G–18G). Routine medications and maintenance fluids usually work well with 20G–22G catheters.

Patient Age and Vein Condition Pediatric, geriatric, or chronically ill patients often have fragile veins, making smaller gauges (22G–24G) safer and more comfortable.

Duration of Cannulation For longer IV therapy, choosing a size that balances adequate flow with minimal vein irritation is important.

Clinical Setting Emergency rooms and operating theatres often prefer larger gauges, while general wards commonly use 20G or 22G catheters.

Proper selection reduces complications such as phlebitis, infiltration, and patient discomfort.

Importance of Quality IV Catheters

Beyond size and color, catheter quality plays a vital role in patient outcomes. High-quality IV catheters ensure:

Smooth insertion with minimal trauma

Optimal flow rates

Reduced risk of infection and leakage

Better patient compliance

Hospitals and distributors increasingly prefer reliable suppliers who meet international quality and safety standards.

IV Catheter Manufacturer in India – Denex International

When it comes to trusted medical devices, Denex International stands out as a leading IV Catheter Manufacturer in India. The company offers a comprehensive range of IV catheters in multiple gauges and color codes, designed to meet global healthcare requirements.

As a reputed IV Catheter Exporter, Denex International supplies high-quality, sterile, and precision-engineered IV catheters to hospitals, clinics, and distributors worldwide. With strict quality control, international certifications, and a focus on patient safety, Denex International continues to be a preferred choice for healthcare providers seeking dependable IV access solutions.

Understanding IV catheter sizes, gauge numbers, and color codes helps clinicians make informed decisions, ensuring safer procedures and better patient care. Choosing a reliable IV Catheter Manufacturer in India further guarantees consistency, quality, and clinical confidence.

Contact Details

Phone - 0124 4115465

In hospitals, intravenous administration is typical for patients unable to take the medication orally. IV Cannula is commonly used as a first-line option. It involves inserting an instrument into a particular vein. 

It is typically found in Metacarpals in the lower arms and the lower leg. It permits medications, fluids, nutrients, and blood products to be pumped by the circulation system.

Overview of IV Cannula

The Intravenous Cannula is suitable for short-term therapy, infusions, and Bolus injections. 

It is also available in a variety of colors based on the dimensions. Based on the chemical composition of the catheters, there are two primary kinds.

FEP(Fluorinated Ethylene)

PUR (Polyurethane).

They are composed of soft, non-irritant, and radiopaque materials, which means they cannot block blood flow. This lowers the chance of developing thrombophlebitis. It is inflammation caused by blood clots. 

How IV Cannula Looks? 

It comes with an injection port as well as wings. This needle provides a lower force of penetration and results in less pain to the person. 

The entire body is translucent and includes an internal flashback chamber that allows the visual inspection of the vein's penetration. 

A silicone injection valve that has an injection port that is unilaterally located is used for the intermittent administration of drugs. The wings give the device additional grip during insertion and aid in adhering to the skin. 

The device is protected by tightly sealed capping to avoid contamination. The most potent IV Cannula is suggested for infusions of viscous liquids like blood. 

In the case of intermittent administration of drugs or any medication required, the smallest size cannula is adequate. 

Bring To the Closure….. 

Due to its wide range of possibilities, MAIS India makes it easy to obtain and of the highest quality. This is a confirmation of international standards.