Which routes are available for ketamine administration?

The correct choice reflects the various routes through which ketamine can be effectively administered in a tactical combat situation. Ketamine is a versatile anesthetic agent with several administration routes, each suitable for different scenarios and patient conditions.

Intravenous (IV) administration allows for rapid onset of action and is commonly used in emergency settings for sedation and pain relief. Intranasal (IN) delivery is advantageous in situations where intravenous access may be challenging, providing a non-invasive option for delivering medication quickly. Intraosseous (IO) administration becomes necessary when IV access is not possible, such as in critically injured patients, allowing for direct drug delivery into the vascular system via the bone marrow. Intramuscular (IM) provides an alternative that is relatively easy to perform while still effective, offering a faster onset compared to oral administration.

Other routes mentioned in the incorrect options, such as oral or sublingual, are generally not utilized in acute combat scenarios due to slower absorption rates and the requirement for patient cooperation, which may not always be feasible during emergencies. Inhalation, while used for some anesthetics, is not a standard route for ketamine administration in tactical emergency situations. Therefore, the selected answer accurately encompasses the primary routes suitable for ketamine in immediate care