Assessment and Management of Pediatric Trauma
Module 3: Pediatric Shock, including Vascular Access
of 43

Intravenous Catheter Size

  • Shorter, large bore IV catheters will infuse IV fluids at a faster rate than longer, narrow lines
  • Pressurizing the fluid bag or syringing the fluids can achieve faster infusions
  • Volumetric pumps or 'buretrol' should be used in small infants to avoid accidental overinfusion of fluids

Type of IV

Gauge

Maximal infusion rate (cc/min)

Peripheral

22

35

 

20

60

 

18

105

Central

20

17

 

18

41

Module 3: Pediatric Shock, including Vascular Access