Pressure infusers

Published

Hi all,

Do any of your EDs use pressure infusers with I/O devices? I know the ED where I work doesn't. Just CVADs and peripheral large bore lines?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Emergency.

We do. It's a central line. Any reason why not?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I need to ask my clinical educator, but from what I've heard it has something to do with the pressure exerted on the bone marrow?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER trauma, ICU - trauma, neuro surgical.

Yes, you can use a pressure infuser with IO devices. The drip rate can vary due to the anatomy of the space, but IO's are usually inserted during emergent situations. Placing it on a pressure bag will allow quick delivery of medication and fluid. After that, the doc can drop in a central line or IV team can place a stat PICC line once stabilized. We usually practice with a pressure bag in order to get everything in as fast as possible. Keeping it open to gravity takes too long and sometimes (although rare), gravity isn't enough to overcome the pressure in the IO space.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER.

In any facility I've worked, it's been policy that IO lines have to be run with a pressure bag.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion