Station 4: Essential Bed-side Procedures

Station 4.1; Peripheral IV Cannulation 

1. Verify indication, patient identity, and obtain consent.

2. Perform hand hygiene and prepare equipment.

3. Select an appropriate vein (hand/forearm preferred).

4. Apply a tourniquet 5–10 cm above the site.

5. Palpate and identify the vein.

6. Clean the site with an antiseptic and allow it to dry completely.

7. Stabilise the vein with the non-dominant hand.

8. Insert the cannula bevel-up at a 15–30° angle.

9. Advance until flashback is seen.

10. Lower the angle and advance the catheter into the vein.

11. Release the tourniquet.

12. Withdraw the stylet safely and dispose of it in a sharps container.

13. Connect extension tubing and flush with saline to confirm patency.

14. Secure the cannula with a transparent dressing.

15. Label and document the procedure.

16. Monitor for complications: infiltration, haematoma, phlebitis, infection, and dislodgement.

Common Complications

• Infiltration/extravasation

• Haematoma

• Phlebitis

• Infection

• Occlusion

• Accidental dislodgement

Station 4.2; Ryle's Tube

Station 4.3; Urinary Catheterisation

Station 4.4; Injection Skills

Station 4.5; Tracheostomy Care