Systems and methods for catheter insertion and blood flashback

A method of placing a catheter into a vein of a patient, comprising:

• priming a catheter system, wherein the catheter system comprises:
• a catheter adapter;
• a catheter extending distally from the catheter adapter;
• an extension tube extending from the catheter adapter;
• a Y-adapter having a distal end, a first arm, and a second arm, wherein the distal end of the Y-adapter is coupled to the extension tube;
• a vent cap coupled to the second arm in a first position or an unactuated position;
• a needle hub coupled to a proximal end of the catheter adapter;
• and
• an introducer needle having a proximal end and a sharp distal tip, wherein the sharp distal tip is disposed distal to a distal end of the catheter, wherein the proximal end of the introducer needle is secured within the needle hub;
• wherein priming the catheter system comprises:
• attaching an IV line to the first arm and delivering saline through the IV line to the catheter system such that the saline exits a distal tip of the catheter or the introducer needle;
• and
• clamping the IV line via a clamp on the IV line;
• actuating the vent cap after priming the catheter system by moving the vent cap to a second position or an actuated position;
• and
• inserting the catheter into a vein of a patient after actuating the vent cap.