What is the size of a yellow IV catheter?

The correct size of a yellow IV catheter is indeed 24 gauge. This size is often used for pediatric patients or for adults requiring slower infusion rates, as it minimizes trauma to the vein while still providing adequate flow rates for many medications and fluids.

Understanding IV catheter sizes is crucial in selecting the appropriate gauge for different clinical situations. The gauge size reflects the internal diameter of the catheter; as the gauge number increases, the size of the catheter decreases. In practice, the 24-gauge catheter is particularly useful in situations where a smaller vein needs to be accessed, such as in infants or individuals with compromised venous access. This size strikes a balance between minimizing vessel injury and allowing for effective intravenous therapy.