General
blue pipes
What does blue pipes mean?
Slang for a patient's veins, from their bluish appearance under the skin.
"Great blue pipes on this one — the cannula will go in first try."
Origin
Descriptive UK/US hospital slang.
Frequently asked questions
What are 'blue pipes'?
It's hospital slang for a patient's veins, named for their bluish look under the skin.
Why do staff care about 'good blue pipes'?
Prominent, accessible veins make it easier to place a cannula or draw blood on the first try.
Is 'blue pipes' a rude term?
No, it's harmless descriptive slang about anatomy, not a put-down.
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