Author: Aaron Lessen, MD

Educational Pearls:

• Choose the longest needle for the humeral IO
• Internally rotate and adduct the patients hand (resting on umbilicus) for best access to the site
• Aim 1 cm superior to the greater tuberosity of the humerus with the needle angled 45 degrees inferiorly
• Maintaining the line is critical - keep arm internally rotated with sling, tape or whatever works

References

Kovar J, Gillum L. Alternate route: the humerus bone - a viable option for IO access. JEMS. 2010 Aug;35(8):52-9. doi: 10.1016/S0197-2510(10)70207-2. PubMed PMID: 20708143.

http://epmonthly.com/article/get-humeral-io-access/

Summarized by Travis Barlock, MS4 | Edited by Erik Verzemnieks, MD