Intraosseous (IO) infusion

Never came across this during training, but have covered it today for a local county update course.

IO infusion, is where a needle is screwed into the bone, to deliver drugs or fluids into the marrow.

This is done in cases where IV (intra venous) access cannot be made.

In our case, it is used on peads (children). Particularly infants as an effective way of delivering fluids, in life threatening cases.

I have to say, nothing really has freaked me on this course, but this procedure has come close.

Quite grateful that it is a Paramedic skill, so will not be required to actually do it for sometime, however, may be at a job where it is used and may need to assist. Not looking forward to that at all!!

I have been reassured by the tutors that if it gets that far, then this is the only option. Small conciliation.

At least with adults, they have some understanding, you would hope, that you are trying to help them. Kids just think the huge green man is there to inflict pain. Do not like to be thought of in that way, even by a small person.

First shift out on the road tomorrow, will be what is called 3rd manning, where I catch a lift with another crew and pester them all evening for top tips. So here's looking forward to being able to actually do something on the road.