During cardiac arrest or shock, it is difficult for paramedics to install IVs through a person's vein because of compromised blood circulation. However, the East Fork Fire and Paramedic District purchased five new instruments, one for each ambulance, to mitigate that problem.
"The device (EZ interosseous drill) drills a small needle through a person's bone, usually the shin, and accesses the bone marrow and interosseous space," said East Fork Firefighter/Paramedic Jeff James. "This space is highly vascular and allows delivery of medications and fluids quickly and effectively."
James said the device can be used on both adult and child patients.
"The whole process takes about 30 seconds," he said. "The American Heart Association recently announced guidelines for advanced cardiac life support that recommended interosseous access as the first alternative to IV access."
East Fork also obtained five new oxygen delivery systems, three of which were free.
"In the past, patients with severe cases of respiratory distress (pulmonary edema, asthma, emphysema, bronchitis) were intubated, which basically entails placing a tube through the vocal cords and breathing for them," said James. "The Port02Vent Continuous Positive Air Pressure system reduces field intubations, which carry an inherent risk of complications, including infection."
James said the new system is portable and allows for immediate application.
"Respiratory distress or 'shortness of breath' calls make up a significant amount of our responses," he said. "Due to Douglas County's large retirement population, the CPAP machines will have a direct impact in improving patient outcomes. East Fork is the first fire and paramedic agency in Nevada to use CPAP."
