Leaflet Details
| Title | Cannula Care - Inpatient |
| Department | Emergency Department |
| Author(s) | Emma McFarlane |
| Review Date | March 2026 |
| Next Review | March 2028 |
| Download | A4 Handout PDF |
| Accessibility Options | Click on the Recite Me button to show our accessibility resources |
Patient Information
What is it?
A cannula is a small flexible plastic tube sitting in a vein, it has been inserted under sterile conditions & has a clear plastic dressing to hold it in place.
Why is it still there?
This is to allow medications to be administered into your veins. Some medications are only made in this form; others act more quickly when given this way.
How do I take care of it?
- Keep it dry when washing. Do not submerge it.
- Wear loose clothing to reduce the chance of it catching.
- Keep it clean.
Complications
If you are concerned about your cannula, please speak to one of the nursing team. The team would like to know if you develop any of the following:
- Pain or stinging around the cannula site.
- Swelling heat or redness around the cannula site & especially if spreading.
- Fluid or blood leaking from the cannula site.
What if it comes out?
- Stay calm.
- Apply pressure & ask for help, any member of our team can help to apply pressure with a clean cloth (gauze) until the bleeding stops.
