What is a potential complication of intraosseous access?

Intraosseous access is a critical procedure used to provide rapid vascular access in emergency situations, particularly when intravenous access is challenging. One of the potential complications of this technique is the risk of infection at the site. The intraosseous route involves inserting a needle into the bone marrow, which can introduce bacteria if the site is not properly cleaned or if the procedure is performed in a non-sterile environment. This risk of infection can lead to osteomyelitis or systemic infections, making it essential for responders to adhere to strict aseptic techniques during the procedure.

While air embolism and inadequate flow rates can be concerns in other medical situations, they are not as directly associated with intraosseous access as the risk of infection. Therefore, focusing on the potential for site infection highlights a critical area of consideration when performing this type of access in an emergency setting. Proper technique and monitoring are paramount to minimizing such complications.