Matt Mason

Vascular access for the provision of medication and fluids through peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) and intraosseous (IO) devices is common in modern health care. In the prehospital setting obtaining this access can be vital, with delays or failures negatively impacting patient outcomes. However, both PIVCs and IO devices have a risk of failure, can injure patients, or be portals of infection with subsequent negative patient outcomes. Research exploring the use and risks of these devices in the prehospital setting is limited compared to hospital settings. The changing nature of prehospital care, and the guidelines that impact when these devices are used, mean it is important to examine current PIVC and IO device practices, identify areas of concern, and explore ways to maintain safe practice. Data from the United States of America (USA) National Emergency Medical Service Information System (NEMSIS) and the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) were analysed to describe the incidence of insertion and usage of PIVC and IO devices, and explore factors associated with their insertion.