Which statement best describes the role of IV versus IO access in EMS?

• A. IO is preferred for most meds; IV is never used
• B. IV and IO are equally preferred in all cases
• C. IV is preferred for most meds; IO is never used
• D. IV is preferred for most meds; IO is used when IV access is not easily obtained

Answer: (D)

In EMS, IV access is the standard route for delivering most medications because it provides reliable, rapid drug delivery and allows monitoring and blood sampling if needed. In emergencies where IV access is difficult or time-consuming—such as in a patient with collapsed or hard-to-find veins—the intraosseous (IO) route offers a quick, effective alternative to ensure meds are given without delaying care. Because of that, the correct statement is that IV is preferred for most meds; IO is used when IV access is not easily obtained.