Abstract: Intravascular access is achieved by introducing a catheter having a guide element recess placed to receive the contoured distal end of a guide element. The guide element may be advanced along an outer surface of an access needle to form a loop beyond the distal end of the needle. The deployed guide element may form a partial or complete loop once beyond the distal end of the needle. After the catheter has been properly positioned, the access needle and guide element may be removed by automatic withdrawal leaving the catheter in place within a blood vessel and available for use.