Intraosseous Update – EZ-IO Added

While I have covered the Pediatric NIO, Pediatric Big and Jamshidi devices in the past, I wanted to touch quickly on the EZ-IO as it seems to be widely used by EMTS/Paramedics in the field as opposed to the hospital setting.

The Per Bielski, K., Szarpak, L., Smereka, J. et al the time required to obtain intravascular access (time T1) in the case of NIO, BIG, EZ-IO, and Jamshidi was varied and amounted to 9 s [IQR, 8–12] for NIO, 12 s [IQR, 9–16] for BIG, 13.5 s [IQR, 11–17] for the EZ-IO, and 15 s [IQR, 13–19] for Jamshidi.

So why not go with the NIO over the EZ-IO. Cost and simplicity I am told is the driving factor. EZ-IO may have a better marketing campaign as they get these into the training academies where graduating EMT’s and Paramedics are intimately familiar with their operation. Also there is the name “EZ” which helps. When doing a standard IV it is second nature. But the first few IO’s get your adrenaline going and there is something about the term “EZ” that is calming.

The EZ-IO when used in a Pre-Hospital environment can offer fast and safe intraosseous access with minimal training. When having a hard time getting a good vein for an IV such as elderly, infants or those with hyporthermia, the EZ-IO is a quick and cost effective option that saves lives.

While all the above mentioned devices will do the job, the EZ-IO seems to be making its way deep into the first responders tool kits.

by, Richard Berk Executive Producer to TechTalk / Contributing Reporter Aimee Johnson (Research)