Final answer:
When a peripheral IV cannot be established in a cardiac arrest situation, the Intraosseous route is the next most preferred method for drug administration, as it provides quick access to the venous system.
Step-by-step explanation:
If emergency medical responders are unable to obtain a peripheral IV for a patient in cardiac arrest, the next most preferred route for drug administration is the Intraosseous (IO) route. This method involves drilling into the bone marrow to provide a non-collapsible entry point into the systemic venous system, allowing for the drugs to be delivered in a manner similar to intravenous injection. The IO route is particularly useful in emergency situations when IV access is not possible or practical, and it is considered a standard of care in emergency medicine for urgent administration of medications and fluids.