In suspected shock requiring a large-volume infusion, which PVAD gauge is considered large-bore?

In suspected shock requiring a large-volume infusion, which PVAD gauge is considered large-bore?

• A. 18-gauge
• B. 22-gauge
• C. 24-gauge
• D. 26-gauge

Answer: (A)

For rapid fluid resuscitation in suspected shock, you want a large-bore IV to maximize how fast fluids can be delivered. The gauge system works inversely: smaller numbers mean larger diameter. Among these options, the 18-gauge catheter has the largest lumen, so it allows the highest flow rate for a large-volume infusion. The other gauges (22, 24, and 26) have progressively smaller lumens, increasing resistance and limiting infusion speed, which is not ideal when rapid resuscitation is needed. In practice, 18-gauge is the preferred choice in this scenario to achieve quicker administration of fluids.

For rapid fluid resuscitation in suspected shock, you want a large-bore IV to maximize how fast fluids can be delivered. The gauge system works inversely: smaller numbers mean larger diameter. Among these options, the 18-gauge catheter has the largest lumen, so it allows the highest flow rate for a large-volume infusion. The other gauges (22, 24, and 26) have progressively smaller lumens, increasing resistance and limiting infusion speed, which is not ideal when rapid resuscitation is needed. In practice, 18-gauge is the preferred choice in this scenario to achieve quicker administration of fluids.