Intraosseous Infusion
Procedure Review
Critical pediatric patients are tuff to say the least. With quality IV access hard to come by, we find ourselves resorting to the unfamiliar I.O. infusion. Heck, just putting together that set-up is hard enough!!!
Please review this protocol to keep your knowledge fresh on this important procedure. Don't forget to complete the test at the end and submit it to Clint Gorman.
Indications: The Protocol
- Immediate need for vascular access into the bone morrow of a critically unstable infant or child
- 2 Unsuccessful attempts to establish IVs have been made
- Patient is less than 6 years old
Considerations:
- To be performed by a Paramedic
- Begin BLS as indicated before attempting I.O. Establishment
- Do not attempt I.O. establishment in any of the following cases
- Oseogenesis imperfecta
- In or distal to a fractured bone
- Through a burn site or infected area
- Dermatitis at the insertion site
- Mild pressure infusion may be indicated, too much will cause leak around needle
- Any I.V. meds or fluids may be given I.O., dilute Bicarb and D50 1:1
What Did You Learn?
Question #1:
The patient must be _______ old to receive an I.O.?