Posted April 26, 20178 yr comment_69648 Hello All, An oncology nurse has asked if a smaller gauge needle could be used when transfusing patients where IV access is a major concern. Our current policy requires a 20 gauge needle or larger. She thinks using a smaller needle could possibly reduce the number of needle sticks difficult patients must endure and even possibly prevent the need for central line insertion. She sent me a 2016 article from Infusion Nurses Society that states when using a short peripheral catheter, use 20 to 24 gauge based on vein size and patient preference. I reviewed the Technical Manual. It says acceptable intravenous catheter sizes for use in transfusing cellular blood components range from 22 to 14 gauge. A 20 to 18 gauge intravenous catheter is suitable for the general adult population and provides adequate flow rates without excessive discomfort to the patient. For infants and toddlers, a 24 to 22 gauge may be suitable but requires infusion through a syringe. The only post I found on this site is approximately four years old. I am wondering what your policies are now. Does anyone allow smaller than 20 gauge? Thanks very much, Cathy
April 27, 20178 yr comment_69662 Our nursing procedure says 20 g or larger. Not sure where this comes from, probably Lippencott. Scott
May 23, 20178 yr comment_69899 Our nursing procedure states: Acceptable catheter size ranges from 14 to 25 gauge (6.3-1.5 French); use the largest size possible for the patient. 18-20 gauge (3.8-2.7 French) catheter provides adequate flow rates without excessive discomfort for the adult or larger pediatric patient. Catheters smaller than 20 gauge (2.7 French) will require slower flow rates to prevent hemolysis of red cells. Larger bore catheters (14-16 gauge/6.3-5 French) should be used for patients requiring rapid infusions.
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