Hospitals continue to grapple with IV fluid shortage

Editor's Note

US hospitals continue to face a shortage of intravenous (IV) fluids due to Hurricane-related damage to the Baxter manufacturing facility that was responsible for 60% of the nation’s supply, MedPage Today reported December 31.

Citing a report from Baxter, the article notes that the manufacturer has restored eight of the plant’s ten manufacturing lines since Hurricane Helene shuttered the operation, reaching 85% of pre-storm capacity as of December 19. The company anticipates resuming full production in early 2025, with allocations for affected product groups expected to end by the first quarter. However, delays in distribution mean hospitals continue to implement conservation measures, such as using smaller IV fluid bags and alternative hydration methods. Some facilities have even restricted elective surgeries.

The shortage underscores the essential role of IV fluids in treating a wide range of conditions, as most hospitalized patients require IV infusions, MedPage reports, and hospitals remain cautious. Nancy Foster of the American Hospital Association notes that full resolution will take time, with ongoing shortages likely to persist into January 2025. The incident highlights the fragility of medical supply chains and the need for robust disaster preparedness strategies.

Meanwhile, many hospitals are attempting to innovate their own solutions to the shortage.