Pediatric intraosseous infusion: an old technique in modern health care technology

Intraosseous infusion is an outmoded technique that is gaining new prominence in the field of emergency medicine. Although not recommended as a replacement for conventional modes of intravascular access, this alternative provides rapid venous access during life-threatening emergencies. A review of the literature indicates that the intraosseous route provides relatively safe, rapid, and reliable access to the systemic venous circulation and is associated with an acceptably low complication rate. This article offers a brief historical overview of this technique and discusses insertion methods, clinical applications, and nursing management of pediatric intraosseous infusion.