Project Archive

Intraosseus Access During Cardiac Arrest

Obtaining vascular access is a key aspect of resuscitation following cardiac arrest. It should be established swiftly and cause minimal disruption to cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Increased time to first adrenaline dose may be associated with worse outcomes.

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This study aimed to establish the extent to which IO devices are used during adult in-hospital cardiac arrests in the Severn Deanery. Anaesthetists, Intensivists and Resuscitation Officers were surveyed and 60% stated they had attended cardiac arrests where IO access should have been considered but was not used.

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Most frequently, failure to think of IO access was the quoted reason for its lack of use. Lack of available equipment and lack of training in its use were also highlighted as causes for failing to establish IO access.