NBC News 10/3/24: Hospitals take steps to conserve IV fluid supply after Helene strikes critical factory

“Baxter International said it would temporarily close production at its North Cove, North Carolina-based facility, raising concerns about a potential nationwide shortage.”

“There are four primary manufacturers of IV fluids in the U.S. Baxter is the leader, accounting for about 60% of the market…In a statement published online Thursday, Baxter said it doesn’t yet have a timeline for when operations will be back up and running…A part of the problem, the company said, is that bridges to its site were damaged in the storm, limiting transport in and out.”

“The company is the main supplier for Mass General Brigham in Boston, which uses more than 100,000 liters of IV fluid from Baxter every month. On a call Thursday with reporters, Dr. Paul Biddinger, Mass General’s chief preparedness and continuity officer, said the health system received a letter from Baxter that said that due to the temporary closure, the system would receive only 40% of its usual supply from the manufacturer. “

My take: This is a nationwide problem and we need to conserve our supplies. This has happened before with Hurricane Maria hitting Puerto Rico in 2018.

1. Use oral fluids/rehydration fluids when possible in place of IV fluids
2. For many patients, IVFs can be used at lower rates or held overnight
3. Would try to complete IVF bags that were started in ED or OR when patient transitions to a hospital floor bed before changing to a new IV fluid bag
4. Nasogastric (NG) tube fluids can be administered more frequently

Related blog posts:

• Saline Shortages
• Choosing the Right Intravenous Fluids
• TPN Amino Acid Shortages Following Hurricane Maria
• AAP Recommends Isotonic Maintenance IV Fluids