Immobilize extremity, especially small child or infant. Locate vein and cleanse the overlying skin with alcohol or betadine, shave area if necessary. Hold vein in place by applying traction on vein distal to the point of entry. Puncture the skin and vein with bevel of needle upward. Note blood return and advance the catheter and needle slightly.
Slide catheter off needle and into the vein.
Withdraw and remove needle and attach IV cap or infusion tubing. Flush catheter and ensure patency. Adjust drip rate. Tape securely in place. Align the cannula in the direction of the vein with the point aimed toward the opposite shoulder.