10/03/2024

IV Fluid Shortage

Healthcare providers across the country are preparing for a shortage of IV fluids due to the devastation of Hurricane Helene.

A Baxter International facility in North Carolina damaged by the hurricane has halted production, which could result in shortages of normal saline, dialysis solutions and other IV products.  It’s likely CA ASCs have received notification from the manufacturer warning them of their decreased production and shipping allowances. The shortage of fluids along with other medical supplies could also be impacted by the dock workers strike on the East and Gulf Coasts.

The California Health Alert Network (CHAN) provided the following notification regarding the expected shortages.

” Hurricane Helene has severely damaged facilities at a Baxter International plant in North Carolina, resulting in its closure. Baxter International is a major manufacturer of intravenous and peritoneal dialysis solutions in the United States.

Baxter International has provided suggestions for management and conservation (see link below and attached). The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and The Emergency Medical Services Authority, in partnership with the Regional Disaster Medical Health System will be assessing local and regional supply. The HHS Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) is tracking potential impacts and CDPH is in contact with ASPR.

Baxter Suggestions for Management and Conservation attached.

American Society of Health-System Pharmacists Fluid Shortages – Suggestions for Management and Conservation: https://www.ashp.org/drug-shortages/shortage-resources/publications/fluid-shortages-suggestions-for-management-and-conservation?loginreturnUrl=SSOCheckOnly”

ASCs should be evaluating their inventory and practices to prepare for potential shortages and impacts to their surgical patients.  We encourage our members to utilize the CASA Online Community to further communicate with other ASCs on how they are adapting their policies and practices as the situation evolves.