Keywords
Cardiac arrest
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Vascular access
Emergency medical services
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Abstract
Objective: To identify what the current literature addresses regarding the applicability of intraosseous access in cardiac arrest. Methods: This is an integrative literature review. The search was conducted in the PubMed database using specific descriptors, with results limited to publications between 2015 and 2025. A total of 180 articles were identified in PubMed. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 18 articles composed the final sample. Results: The findings indicate that intraosseous (IO) access is a rapid and safe vascular access route in scenarios where intravenous (IV) access is difficult to obtain; however, it does not demonstrate superiority in outcomes such as return of spontaneous circulation, survival, or neurological prognosis.
Final considerations: Intraosseous access represents a safe and effective alternative to intravenous access in cardiac arrest situations, particularly when venous access is difficult. Although it does not show superiority in major clinical outcomes, its early use may optimize response time during resuscitation. International guidelines maintain intravenous access as the first-line option, recommending intraosseous access in cases of difficult vascular access. Continuous professional training and the strengthening of national research are essential to support its safe use in emergency care settings.
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