Read Updates on Global IV Fluid Shortage Situation

The severe hurricane activity that the southeastern US has experienced in September and into October have taken a toll on the availability and distribution of essential prepackaged IV fluids. The ACS sent an email to all members last week describing the situation and providing strategies and resources with information and clinical recommendations to address the shortage while maintaining high-quality care.

In the past few days, there have been additional updates and news emerging regarding the shortage.

The American Society of Health-Systems Pharmacists (ASHP) has provided several substantive updates that include additional considerations for determining IV fluid hang times, links to external resources to provide more information and sources, and FAQ section to address common queries.

Part of the ASHP update notes that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced the availability of guidance, “Temporary Policies for Compounding Certain Parenteral Drug Products,” which describes the FDA’s regulatory and enforcement priorities regarding the compounding of certain parenteral drug products by outsourcing facilities and by state-licensed pharmacies and Federal facilities that are not registered with FDA as outsourcing facilities.

In encouraging news, Baxter International, whose North Cove, North Carolina, manufacturing site was significantly impacted by Hurricane Helene and contributed greatly the current shortage, has announced that it has resumed shipments of IV products to hospitals and other health facilities after a 1-week hold.  Manufacturing plants are increasing production to meet global demand.

As IV fluid availability returns to manageable levels, surgeons are encouraged to monitor updates and continue to refer to the College’s and other expert stakeholder organization recommendations for help in guiding their decision-making.