ASHP Offers New Guidance for Managing IV Fluid Shortages

Today, ASHP and the University of Utah released updated recommendations for managing intravenous fluid shortages and conserving supply after Hurricane Helene forced the closure of a critical manufacturing plant in North Carolina. 

The management and conservation resource, created in 2022, was updated Friday to reflect the current supply status of small- and large-volume intravenous solutions. The document provides operational steps that organizations may consider in conserving inventory and managing fluid shortages. The updated recommendations reflect best practices related to multiple aspects of patient care, including considerations for intravenous hydration and alternate routes of administration.

Baxter International closed its North Cove, North Carolina, manufacturing plant, due to heavy flooding caused by Hurricane Helene last week. The plant is a major producer of various types of sterile fluids that are given intravenously or by other routes.

Since news broke about the Baxter facility, ASHP immediately recognized the significant shortages that are likely to result from the plant closure and began engaging relevant stakeholders and evaluating existing resources. Over the past 48 hours, ASHP has been in communication with Baxter, group purchasing organizations, government agencies, health systems, and many others. ASHP has also joined other leaders in the End Drug Shortages Alliance to plan advocacy at the national level and discuss resources to help practitioners care for their patients.

Please consult our Drug Shortages Resource Center for additional information on current shortages and for resources to assist you in managing and conserving inventory at your practice site.

ASHP will continue our efforts to advocate on behalf of our members and their patients and provide updates as we receive them. Please send any questions to [email protected].