The safety IV cannula is a peripheral venous access device used in hospitals and clinics for delivering fluids, medications and blood directly into a patient’s vein. Safety IV cannulas differ from normal IV cannulas in that they have a self-activating safety system which automatically locks the steel needle tip in the protected area after the health care practitioner removes it from the vein after successful venipuncture. This lock is automatic, which eliminates the risk of accidental needle prick injuries to the nurse during the peak period of clinical activity. Safety IV cannulas come in gauge sizes from 14G to 26G and are colour coded at the hub for easy identification.