INTRAOSSEOUS ACCESS IN THE PRE-HOSPITAL SETTING: EXPERIENCES AND OPINIONS OF HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS

Authors : Nurten Tosun
Pages : 327-345
Doi:10.54409/hod.1738693
View : 155 | Download : 208
Publication Date : 2025-12-28
Article Type : Research Paper
Abstract :ABSTRACT Objective: This study investigates the current state of intraosseous procedures performed by healthcare professionals in pre-hospital emergency medical services. It explores the factors involved, the challenges encountered, and the recommendations from these professionals. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive, and mixed-methods approach was employed. Data were collected from 403 healthcare professionals (emergency medical technicians, paramedics, and doctors) working in pre-hospital emergency healthcare services across Turkey from November to December 2024 via an online survey. Quantitative data were analysed using frequency and percentage distributions, along with the chi-square test. Qualitative data were assessed through content analysis. Results: Only 19.9% of participants had previously performed an intraosseous procedure. Among those who had, the majority preferred intraosseous access, particularly in cases of cardiac arrest and when vascular access was unavailable. The most commonly used insertion site was the proximal tibia. Manual needles were less favoured compared to automatic devices such as BIG and EZ-IO. The use of intraosseous access was associated with factors such as gender, education level, years of experience, previous training in intraosseous procedures, and access to equipment. The main challenges identified through qualitative data included equipment shortages, lack of training and experience, technical difficulties, and patient- and environment-related factors. Participants recommended expanding training programmes, improving equipment access, and enhancing technical application and practice. Conclusions: A comprehensive strategy that incorporates a multifaceted training approach, improved equipment access, and enhanced technical procedures is necessary to facilitate the wider and safer implementation of intraosseous access.
Keywords : İntraosseöz girişim, Hastane Öncesi, Acil Durum, Deneyimler, Sağlık profesyonelleri

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