Written by Daniel Pearce and Sarah McCloskey
Like many other health systems in the United States, our nation’s health system is currently dealing with the effects of a national medical fluid shortage.
The shortage is due to the effects of Hurricane Helen in North Carolina, where Baxter International, a major manufacturer of IV fluids and other medical fluids, is located.
As the federal government works to find other suppliers for this critical care product, VCU Health is implementing conservation strategies to ensure we maintain sufficient supplies to care for our most critically ill patients. Masu.
Here’s the latest information we know about medical fluid shortages and VCU’s health impacts.
Why is there a shortage of medical fluids?
Baxter International, Inc. announced that its manufacturing facility is closed and production is suspended due to hurricane damage.
The company’s North Carolina plant accounts for 60% of all Baxter fluid production. Baxter and all other IV fluid manufacturers are currently on assignment. This means that we are only shipping a portion of our order volume to our loyal customers and are not accepting new customers, creating a supply shortage.
How long will this shortage last?
We don’t know exactly how long the shortage will last. Baxter estimates it could take until the end of the year for the plant to be fully operational. Many different agencies are working on solutions. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently announced additional measures to increase fluid supplies.
The federal government has approved shipments of IV products from Canada, China, Ireland and the United Kingdom When will U.S. hospitals receive them?
As of October 17th, the first products that the FDA has cleared for temporary import are expected to arrive in the US this weekend. With coordination and support from the U.S. Office of Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), Baxter plans to supply approximately 18,000 tons of product from Europe and Asia by the end of the year.
It may take varying amounts of time over the next few weeks for providers to begin receiving these products.
What is VCU Health doing in the meantime?
VCU Health is committed to maintaining the highest level of patient care and safety. We have implemented conservation strategies to ensure we maintain sufficient supplies to treat our most critically ill patients.
Examples of strategies include using small IV bags when appropriate, encouraging oral hydration when clinically indicated, and converting medications to oral formulations when possible. I can list it.
Will there be any changes to the procedure?
At this time, we are not canceling or postponing any procedures or treatments. However, we are monitoring the situation closely and continue to explore all protection options.
Do these changes apply to all VCU Health facilities?
Yes, we are currently conserving medical fluids at all VCU Health facilities, including VCU Medical Center, VCU Health Tappahannock Hospital, VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital, and all clinics.
Should I go to the hospital even if I have a health problem?
yes. If you need medical attention, please contact your health care provider or, in case of an emergency, call 911.
Do I still need to go to the doctor even if I already have a medical appointment?
yes. Please plan to attend all pre-scheduled appointments at VCU medical facilities. You will be notified of any changes to your appointment by your VCU Health representative or MyChart.
Is there anything I can do to help?
Staying hydrated is an important strategy for staying healthy, especially when temperatures are above normal or you’re physically active. Avoiding dehydration reduces the number of trips to the emergency room and the need for IV fluids.
Additionally, if you or a family member is hospitalized, paying attention to your doctor’s or nurse’s instructions about when and how much fluid to take by mouth can speed recovery and reduce the need for IV fluids. .
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