What is a Peripheral Catheter Called? An Overview of IV Lines and Cannulas

October 2, 2025 •

3 min read

In hospitals worldwide, over one billion peripheral intravenous lines are used annually, making them the most commonly performed invasive procedure in acute healthcare settings. If you've heard this device referred to by multiple names, you may be wondering: what is a peripheral catheter called? A peripheral catheter is a small, flexible tube, also known as a peripheral IV, cannula, or drip, inserted into a peripheral vein to administer fluids and medication.

Quick Summary

A peripheral catheter is also known as a peripheral IV line, peripheral venous catheter, cannula, or drip. It is a short, flexible tube inserted into a peripheral vein, typically in the arm or hand, to deliver fluids and medications for short-term use.

Key Points

Multiple names: A peripheral catheter is also called a peripheral IV line, cannula, or drip, depending on regional variations and context.
Common medical device: PIVCs are the most commonly used vascular access devices for short-term fluid and medication delivery.
Variety of applications: These catheters are used for hydration, blood transfusions, medication administration, and diagnostic tests.
Different types exist: Beyond the standard short PIVC, longer catheters like long peripheral catheters and midlines are used for extended therapy.
Potential complications: Common issues include phlebitis (vein inflammation), infiltration (fluid leakage), occlusion (blockage), and infection.
Relatively safe: Compared to central lines, peripheral catheters carry a lower risk of serious complications and are easier to insert.

What is a peripheral catheter called?

A peripheral catheter is known by several names, which can sometimes be confusing. The formal medical term is peripheral intravenous catheter, often shortened to PIVC. In clinical practice, it's frequently referred to simply as an IV. Other common terms include IV line, cannula (especially in some countries), the brand name Venflon used generically, and drip, referring to the fluid delivery.

Why is a peripheral catheter needed?

Peripheral catheters are essential for providing temporary access to a patient's bloodstream for various medical treatments. They are primarily used for:

Administering Fluids: Rehydrating patients.
Delivering Medications: Giving drugs directly into the bloodstream for faster absorption.
Blood Transfusions: Providing blood and blood products.
Nutritional Support: Supplying liquid nutrition.
Diagnostic Imaging: Injecting contrast dyes for tests like CT scans.
Blood Sampling: Drawing blood without repeated needle sticks.

How a peripheral catheter is inserted

Inserting a peripheral catheter is a routine procedure performed by trained medical staff. The steps involve:

Choosing a Site: Selecting a visible vein, usually in the arm or hand, or scalp/foot for infants.
Cleaning: Preparing the skin with antiseptic to prevent infection.
Insertion: Inserting a needle with a catheter into the vein, confirmed by a blood flash.
Advancement: Sliding the catheter into the vein and removing the needle.
Securing: Taping the catheter to the skin with a sterile dressing.
Connecting: Attaching the IV tubing to begin fluid or medication delivery.

Types of peripheral catheters

Peripheral catheters vary based on length and how far they extend into the vein. The main categories are short PIVCs and longer types, which are sometimes seen as bridging devices to central lines.

Comparison of Peripheral Catheter Types


Feature	Short Peripheral Catheter (PIVC/Cannula)	Long Peripheral Catheter (LPC/Mini-Midline)	Midline Catheter (MC)
Length	< 3 inches (7.62 cm)	6-15 cm	15-25 cm
Insertion Site	Usually hand or forearm	Forearm or upper arm	Peripheral veins of upper arm (basilic, cephalic, brachial)
Catheter Tip Location	Superficial peripheral vein, before the axilla	Mid-upper arm, before the axilla	Axillary vein, at or below the axilla
Dwell Time	Typically a few days (e.g., 3-5 days)	Up to 4 weeks	Weeks to months
Uses	Short-term therapy, hydration, blood draw	Multi-day IV therapy, poor venous access	Longer courses of IV fluids, antibiotics, etc.
Insertion Method	Over-the-needle technique	Over-the-needle or Seldinger technique	Modified Seldinger technique

Risks and complications

Peripheral catheters are generally safe, but complications can occur, primarily at the insertion site. Common issues include:

Phlebitis: Inflammation of the vein, causing pain, redness, and swelling.
Infiltration/Extravasation: Fluid leaking into surrounding tissue, causing swelling and discomfort.
Occlusion: Blockage preventing fluid flow.
Dislodgement: Accidental removal of the catheter.
Infection: Potential for infection at the site or in the bloodstream.
Hematoma: Bruising from blood leakage during insertion.

Conclusion

A peripheral catheter, known commonly as a peripheral IV, cannula, or IV line, is a vital medical device for providing bloodstream access for various treatments. The specific terminology can vary, but its role in patient care is fundamental. The choice of catheter type depends on the patient's needs and treatment duration. While complications like phlebitis or infiltration can occur, they are generally safe and crucial for administering fluids and medications. Proper insertion, maintenance, and monitoring are key to their safe and effective use. For more information on patient safety regarding peripheral IVs, resources like the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) are available.

AHRQ PSNet: Peripheral IV in Too Long

Frequently Asked Questions

A peripheral catheter is a short tube inserted into a peripheral vein, typically in the arm or hand, for short-term use. A central catheter (e.g., PICC line, central line) is longer, inserted into a large vein in the chest, and the tip reaches near the heart. It is used for longer-term therapy or specific medications.

A healthcare provider inserts a needle containing a hollow plastic catheter into a vein, usually in the hand or arm. Once in the vein, the needle is removed, leaving the flexible catheter behind, which is then secured with a dressing.

Most patients feel a sharp pinch or sting as the needle is inserted, but the discomfort is brief. Once the catheter is in place, it is generally painless, though some people may feel a slight pressure or ache at the site.

A standard short peripheral catheter is meant for short-term use, typically staying in for only a few days before needing to be replaced. For longer courses of treatment, a long peripheral or midline catheter may be used.

You should immediately inform your healthcare provider. Redness, swelling, warmth, or pain at the site could be signs of phlebitis (vein inflammation) or infiltration (fluid leaking). The catheter will likely need to be removed and re-inserted in a new location.

That is an implanted port, which is a type of central venous catheter surgically placed entirely under the skin. It is accessed with a special needle and used for longer-term treatments.

You should not get the catheter site or dressing wet. Many healthcare facilities provide special waterproof covers for showering, and you should avoid bathing or swimming.