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Peripheral Intravenous Catheter

Patient information

What is PIVC?

A PIVC (peripheral intravenous catheter [or cannula]) is commonly known as a ‘cannula’ or ‘drip’. A PIVC is inserted into a vein, mostly in the arm before a procedure such as surgery or a CT scan, or to deliver fluids and/or medications.

Have you had a PIVC before?

Tell your healthcare team about your past experiences including:

  • Difficulty inserting a PIVC.
  • Anything that worked well.
  • Your preference for where the PIVC is placed.
  • All allergies you have, such as to tapes and dressings.

How should you care for your PIVC?

  • Keep your hands clean by washing with soap or using alcohol hand sanitiser.
  • Do not touch, fiddle with, or move the PIVC and/or lines.
  • Protect your PIVC from knocks, being pulled or catching on clothing.
  • Keep your PIVC dry while washing and showering.
  • Ensure the protective dressing stays in place.
  • Tell your clinician as soon as possible about
    − Redness, pain or swelling at the insertion site.
    − Feeling hot, cold or shivery.
    − Leakage from the PIVC.
    − The dressing is getting wet, bloodstained or loose.

How will your healthcare team care for your PIVC?

  • They’ll clean their hands prior to inserting the PIVC as well as before and after every use of the device.
  • They’ll make sure any connectors or bungs are cleaned with an antiseptic swab before use.
  • They’ll regularly check if you have any concerns or notice any problems with your PIVC.

If you have an IV infusion running, the same line should not be disconnected and reconnected.

How long will the PIVC stay in?

  • The PIVC can stay in for up to 72 hours or 3 days as long as there are no complications.
  • The PIVC should be removed if there is any sign of pain or inflammation at the insertion site or during use.
  • If your PIVC has not been used in the last 24 hours, ask if you still need it.
  • Your PIVC will be removed when no longer needed and before discharge.


For further information please speak with your doctor, nurse or midwife.

Reference: Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care. Management of Peripheral Intravenous Catheters Clinical Care Standard. Sydney: ACQSHC; 2021.
Consumer review date: 18 September 2024
Document number: MPPL-07657