Update (Oct. 22, 2024): Thank you for conserving our reduced IV Fluid (IVF) supply over the last several weeks. Like many health systems nationwide, UC Davis Health has struggled with an IVF shortage related to Hurricane Helene’s impact on Baxter’s North Carolina production facility.
The good news is that we have secured additional stock from ICU Medical, a California-based company with a manufacturing facility in Texas. They will help us meet our IVF needs. We received the shipment this morning.
Even though we have this additional stock, we ask that you continue conserving IVF where possible. Reducing our usage will allow us, if necessary, to help some of our community partners who could not secure additional stock from other suppliers. Thank you again for your hard work in this space. As always, our team has risen to the challenge.
(Oct. 4, 2024) Hurricane Helene has had a devastating impact on the Southeast part of the US. Our thoughts go out to those impacted by the storm and flooding. One significant impact of the hurricane was the closure of one of Baxter’s manufacturing facilities. This was our (and many across the country) primary source of IV fluid. UC Davis will receive only 50% of our IV solution supply, including all IV fluids in 250 ml, 500 ml, and 1000 ml bags. Therefore, we ask everyone to be prudent in using all solutions and fluid supplies.
Our supply chain, pharmacy, and operations teams are developing mitigation strategies and evaluating alternative suppliers. Despite our best efforts, we will have a reduced supply and need to conserve fluids.
Here is what you can expect and do to help:
Expect questions about your IV fluid orders, such as whether there is a PO or IV push option.
Look for alternatives to IV fluid, such as PO hydration or lower infusion rates.
Avoid using TKO rates and move to saline lock.
Only open the IV fluids you will administer; do not open bags in anticipation.
Avoid preparing fluids in advance; we should not have spiked bags hanging just in case.
We understand this is challenging. Every disaster situation forces us to reevaluate how we are allocating our limited resources. The team is working hard to mitigate this, yet it will take time. We appreciate you, the care you deliver to your patients, and your support and cooperation as we navigate this challenge.
