A universal gripping surface is provided on an intravenous catheter assembly. The universal gripping surface provides a plurality of surfaces whereby a user may grip the catheter assembly in a desired gripping configuration for improved balance and control of the catheter assembly during insertion of the catheter. Additionally, the universal gripping surface includes a guard feature to prevent a users unintended contact with various components of the catheter assembly whereby the contact may result in an undesirable "over the bevel" condition.
