Using different catheters to inject or infuse drugs into patients veins, as well as drawing blood samples, are part of the daily hospital routine for nursing personnel. There are many documented accounts written about these instruments, most by professional experts and therefore usually very technical in nature. This technical aspect presents a stumbling block for nursing personnel who are studying or just starting their practice. The purpose of this article is to present a practical, simple description of the different types of peripheral access catheters, their use and maintenance.