Intravenous Cannulation for Imaging

Provides the appropriate theoretical background for practitioners to undertake intravenous injections

College of Radiographers approved intravenous cannulation short course

This course aims are to provide the appropriate theoretical background for clinical imaging staff to undertake intravenous injections and to allow clinical imaging staff to develop clinical expertise in intravenous injection procedures.

This module will allow learners to integrate the knowledge gained in a non-clinical setting to their future work environment. They will have the opportunity to develop their standards of professional behaviour alongside the practical skill in IV cannulation.

The course fits with Section 6.3 of the

Close up of syringe with vial of medication (Courtesy of Shutterstock)

Module aims

To provide the appropriate theoretical background for practitioners to undertake intravenous injections.
To allow practitioners to develop clinical expertise in intravenous injection procedures.

Summary of module content

There are two components to the course of study:

Theoretical element; mainly theory with some practice of skills using commercial arm / leg models.
Practice based learning under the guidance of a named supervisor to include a record of clinical experience.

Course contents

The structure is aimed to accommodate busy imaging departments with pre-reading to be undertaken, followed by one contact day, with assessment on the day. On the contact day, the participant will have ample opportunity to practice IV cannulation using a simulation arm in a safe and controlled environment. During the day, the student will participate in a refresher session for the academic content, and undertake a multiple-choice test, based on the academic content. A safety check will also be undertaken to ensure clinical safety. After the contact day, the participants will complete a practical portfolio log in their clinical environment which needs to be completed within six months. Upon confirmation of achievement of all assessments, a certificate of completion will be issued.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

Discuss the role of the practitioner in the administration of IV cannulation.
Demonstrate the professional and medico-legal implications of IV cannulation.
Outline the reasons in which a practitioner may undertake IV cannulation.
Demonstrate the ability to assess risk groups and patient suitability.
Understand the role of Patient Group Directive and departmental protocols in imaging and how / when these are reviewed.
Demonstrate understanding of pharmacological and physiological principles of medicines administered in clinical practice.

Practical skills – portfolio assessment

Explain and demonstrate the procedures of IV administration (use of ANTT).
Explain and implement the safety precautions associated with IV administration (needle stick injury).
Recognise and deal appropriately with any adverse reactions to IV administration (anaphylaxis).
Evaluate and assess the procedure of administering IV medicines.

All radiographers will gain certification from SCoR on completion of the programme. Those without HCPC registration will gain certification from the University to state completion.

How to apply

To apply for this module please complete the form below:

IV Cannulation Application Form 2025 / 2026

Return the completed form to PDUAdmissions@plymouth.ac.uk

Module dates*

This course involves pre-reading activities prior to the contact day. The start date of the programme is approximately four weeks prior to the taught / practical session.

2025

Pre-reading / Contact day

17 October 2025 / 15 November 2025

21 November 2025 / 20 December 2025

2 January 2026 / 31 January 2026

13 February 2026 / 14 March 2026

27 March 2026 / 25 April 2026

If you'd like to be added to an enquiry list to be kept updated please email pduadmissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Location

The course will be delivered in the .

Fees and funding

There may be limited HEE funded places for the South West region and those organisations who host our diagnostic radiography students for each date.

Fee paying options for candidates outside of the South West region.

Fee for 2025 / 26 is to be confirmed.

Module lead

Karran Speakman

*Module dates are subject to change and may not run depending on numbers. Places on each date are limited. If your chosen date is full you will be offered an alternative.